Effect of glass fiber reinforcement on the flexural strength of different denture base resins

Objective: Different types of fibers have been added to polymer materials to improve their mechanical properties. Glass fibers have been used in either continuous or woven form as a strengthening material. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of a new glass fiber reinforcement system on the flexural strength of three different denture base resins (heat polymerized, autopolymerized, and photopolymerized). Method and materials: Ninety specimens were formed in a specially designed mold to produce identical specimens in accordance with each manufacturer's recommendations. Results: The fibers of Stick and Stick Net were well impregnated with the resin of polymer matrix. Stick and Stick Net reinforcement significantly enhanced the flexural strength of the tested specimens. In all groups, specimens reinforced with Stick glass fibers exhibited the highest flexural strength, followed by Stick Net glass fibers. The control group specimens without fiber exhibited the lowest values. Conclusion: The process of reinforcement of denture base resins with glass fiber may be a useful means of strengthening denture bases beyond their normal limits.