Comparative Evaluation of Strength and Color Stability of Heat Cured Acrylic Resin Incorporated with Antifungal Agents- Melaleuca Alternifolia & Fluconazole

Abstract

Introduction: Partial and completely edentulous arches are being restored with heat cured acrylic resin (PMMA). Even though there are innumerable benefits its surface topography, renders it susceptible for the oral bacteria to flourish. The use of antifungal drugs avoids candidal growth. Along with the antifungal properties, the denture should also set forth acceptable physical and optical properties. Therefore, this invitro study was done to examine and assess PMMA's strength and color stability after adding antifungals.

Method: Fluconazole was incorporated in ratio 1:9 of powder whereas Melaleuca alternifolia was 20% by vol of monomer. Custom dies were fabricated for flexural strength (65x10x4) mm, compressive strength (38x25) mm & color stability (2x20)mm according to ADA specification no. 12, ISO 20795 & ASTM D 695-02a (ISO 604). 22 samples were made for 3 groups: Control, Fluconazole & Melaleuca alternifolia. 198 samples were tested under UTM & spectrophotometer machines.

Results & Conclusion: Statistical tests were performed using SPSS software by inter group & pairwise comparison with one-way ANOVA and Tukey post hoc test respectively. Mean flexural strength was 131.82, 115.20 & 73.41 for Group 1, 2 & 3 respectively which showed slight difference with Group 2 but statistically significant change with Group 3. Mean compressive strength was 71.10, 68.07 & 33.28 for Group 1, 2 & 3 respectively where Group 1 & 2 had comparable values as compared to group 3 where it changed drastically. Mean color stability was 0.750, 4.90 & 10.57 for Group 1, 2 & 3 respectively which was statistically significant for 3 groups.