The effect of polishing agents on the transverse strength of heat cured acrylic resin bases

Abstract

Introduction: Heat cured acrylic resin is frequently used denture base material whereby transverse strength is one of the mechanical properties that must be observed. A rough surface absorbs water, reduces strength of denture bases, thus polishing should be done. Pumice is the most abrasive material used in dentistry. Eggshell and toothpaste can be used as alternative abrasive materials. This study aims to determine the differences in value of transverse strength of HCA resin once polished using pumice, eggshells, and toothpaste. Method: This laboratory experimental study using sample sized 65x10x2.5 mm with 30 samples in total for 3 groups. Transverse strength was measured using Universal Testing Machine. The data were analyzed using one-way Anova. Result: The comparison ratio of transverse strength between HCA resin after polishing with pumice, eggshells and tooth paste is 93.63 : 118.42 : 105.91 MPa. It shows there were significant differences in transverse strength between groups with significant value p was 0.001 which less than 0.05. Conclusion: The value of transverse strength varies according to polishing material used. Eggshell has the highest transverse strength value compared to pumice and toothpaste.