Castable polymer-infiltrated ceramic network composite for training model tooth with compatible machinability to human enamel

Abstract

This study aimed to develop a novel polymer-infiltrated ceramic network (PICN) composite fabricated via a slip-casting method for a dental training model tooth with machinability compatible to human enamel. A PICN model tooth comprised of silica/acrylic-resin was fabricated via the slip-casting method. A commercial resin-based model tooth and human enamel were used as the control sample. The samples were evaluated based on Vickers hardness, inorganic contents, density, and machinability. The machinability was characterized by a grinding amount obtained from the grinding test using a device equipped with a dental micromotor handpiece with a diamond bur. The properties of the PICN model tooth yielded a silica content of 84.7% and a density of 1.99 g/cm 3 , and its Vickers hardness (312) was comparable with that of enamel (348). The grinding amount was comparable with that of enamel. The castable PICN model tooth was compatible to enamel in terms of hardness and machinability.

<i>In-vitro</i> evaluation of wear characteristics, microhardness and color stability of dental restorative CAD/CAM materials

“…The objective of using dental materials is to emulate enamel and dentin in terms of mechanical and biological structure however, it is quite difficult to re-create the complexity of the structure of natural dental tissues. Dental ceramics look similar to human enamel in terms of some physical properties, whereas composite resins simulate mainly the characteristics of dentin 4) . With regard to this information, PICN materials that combine ceramic and composite properties, were manufactured.…”