Comparative Analysis of the Color Stability of Machined Denture Base Materials: An In-Vitro Approach

Abstract

Background: Color stability is a crucial aspect in the selection of denture base materials as it directly impacts the esthetic appeal and longevity of dental prostheses. This study aimed to compare the color stability of different denture base materials through an in vitro approach. Materials and Methods: Three machined denture base materials including polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), Acetal (AC), and polyether ether ketone (PEEK) were subjected to artificial aging using a xenon-arc lamp. Color measurements were taken before and after aging using a spectrophotometer. Statistical analysis was performed to determine any significant differences among the materials. Results: The color stability of the denture base materials was quantitatively assessed using parameters such as ΔE values. PEEK exhibited the least color change (ΔE = 2.1 ± 0.3), followed by AC (ΔE = 3.5 ± 0.4), while PMMA showed the highest color change (ΔE = 5.9 ± 0.7). Conclusion: In this in vitro study, PEEK demonstrated superior color stability compared to AC and PMMA denture base materials under artificial aging conditions. These findings emphasize the importance of material selection in achieving long-term esthetic outcomes in dental prostheses.

Keywords

• artificial aging
• color stability
• denture base materials
• polyethylene
• polymethyl methacrylate
• polyvinyl chloride