John Francis , Rajesh Shetty , Kamalakanth Shenoy , Vinej Somaraj 

ABSTRACT

Aim: The aim of the study was to evaluate and compare the influence of different curing cycles on the mechanical properties of three commercially available heat cured acrylic denture base resins. Methodology: A total of 120 samples were fabricated with the help of a customized 3 piece aluminium mould. Three brands of heat-cured acrylic denture base resins (DPI, TREVALON, and VERACRIL) were selected for the study. These materials were polymerized using 2 different curing cycles – Short Curing Cycle (740C for 2 hours followed by 1000C for 1 hour) and Long Curing Cycle (740C for 8 hours followed by 1000C for 1 hour). The cured samples were then stored in water for one month to ensure full saturation. Once the immersion time had elapsed, each group of samples are subjected to a 3 Point Bending Test and Pendulum Impact Test. The data obtained were subjected to statistical analysis. Results: The mean flexural strength and impact strength values of all 3 brands of commercially available denture base resins were higher in the long curing group when compared to the short curing group (p < 0.05). Trevalon heat-cured acrylic denture base resin was found to have superior flexural and impact strength values as compared to other two denture base resins when cured using long and short curing cycles. Conclusion: The type of polymerization cycle played an important role in influencing the flexural and impact strength of heat cured acrylic denture base resin.