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In the field of dental materials, flexible polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) has become an important supplement to traditional rigid PMMA due to its unique toughness and processability, playing an irreplaceable role in temporary restoration and functional correction. Compared with ordinary PMMA, it introduces flexible groups through molecular chain modification, which increases the elongation at break to over 30% and the impact strength by 2-3 times. It retains excellent biocompatibility while overcoming brittle defects.
In the production of temporary restorations, flexible PMMA exhibits significant advantages. When used as a temporary crown bridge for front teeth, it can be injection molded into an ultra-thin (0.5-1mm) tooth surface, which combines natural translucency and anti bending ability, and can withstand the instantaneous impact force during chewing without easily cracking; Temporary restoration of posterior teeth can be achieved by adding fiberglass reinforcement, which enhances compressive strength while retaining flexibility, meeting the requirements of occlusal function. In clinical practice, doctors can directly shape and repair the oral cavity, and the material maintains a certain plasticity at 37 ℃, making it easy to adjust the edge fit.
For the adjuvant treatment of periodontal disease, flexible PMMA is an ideal material for making periodontal splints. Its elastic modulus is closer to gingival tissue, which can buffer the impact of biting force on loose teeth, and has sufficient elastic deformation ability, allowing teeth to move slightly within the physiological range and promoting periodontal tissue healing. Compared with traditional steel wire splints, flexible PMMA splints have a smooth surface, reducing plaque adhesion, and can be coordinated with natural teeth through color matching, balancing functionality and aesthetics.
In the field of orthodontic appliances, flexible PMMA is commonly used to make invisible retainers. The material can soften and shape at 60-80 ℃, accurately fitting the shape of the dental arch, and providing sustained and gentle orthodontic force when worn; At room temperature, it returns to a stable form, ensuring both the retention effect and preventing mucosal damage caused by hardness. In addition, it has excellent saliva corrosion resistance and a service life of up to 6-12 months, far exceeding traditional elastic materials.
With the development of oral material technology, flexible PMMA is further optimizing its performance through composite nano fillers, and is expected to expand its application space in fields such as temporary restoration of implant abutments and early childhood correction in the future.
