BIOCOMPATIBILITY AND REACTION OF DENTAL POLYMERS IN ORAL ENVIRONMENT

Dental polymers, commonly known as “Dental Resins” were first used in dentistry in 1839, and since then they have emerged as a favorable candidate for restorative dentistry and cosmetic and functional purposes. Many prosthesis and implants made from polymers have been in use for the last three decades and there is a continuous search for more biocompatible and stronger polymer prosthetic materials. Typical applications of polymers in dentistry are impression materials, relining materials, temporary crown materials, denture base materials, obturation materials (endodontic treatment), and filling materials (composite, cements, adhesives). The dental polymers that are to be used in the oral cavity should be harmless to all oral tissues – gingiva, mucosa, pulp, and bone. Furthermore, it should contain no toxic, leachable, or diffusible substance that can be absorbed into the circulatory system, causing systemic toxic responses, including teratogenic or carcinogenic effects. The materials should also be free of agents that could elicit sensitization or an allergic response in a sensitized patient. Rarely, unintended side effects of dental polymers may occur as a result of toxic, irritative, or allergic reactions. The most widely used polymer in prosthodontics is polymethyl-methacrylate resin (PMMA), which is used for fabrication of various dental prostheses and denture liners, temporary crowns and orthodontic appliances. The aim of the current paper is to provide an overview of the current literature on toxicology of dental polymers and to give implications for possible improvements concerning their biocompatibility.