Functionalization of dental prosthetic interfaces following adaption of dental materials for 3d printing

Statement of Purpose: Major changes in manufacturing and health care are happening as a result of the technological advancements in 3D printing.¹ The availability of more sophisticated and cost-effective instruments and better materials has helped reduce manufacturing time, turnaround times, and costs, making this a viable alternative to conventional dental labs.^2,3 3D printing is already revolutionizing clinical care in the dental field. Examples of this include fabrication of custom surgical guides, orthodontic appliances, investment parts and temporary crowns among others. These devices are fabricated with readily available industrial polymers such as polylactic acid (PLA). By determining the feasibility of utilizing a current dental material, polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), after modification for 3D printing of dental prostheses, cost reduction and turnaround time for patients compared to conventionally made or milled dentures may be possible. Although commercial PMMA filaments are available, they are currently not optimal (color, durability) for routine dental materials. Furthermore creation of these devices may be suitable for advancements in smart materials applications^4,5 such as highly prevalent Candida-associated denture stomatitis, a fungal infection in edentulous denture-wearers. Repurposing this commonly used dental thermopolymer, PMMA as a filament to 3D-print dentures, in combination with anti-fungals may functionalize the tissue interface of the dentures. It is purposed that using controlled-release microspheres loaded with anti-fungal medicaments will allow for the management of patients suffering this ailment.