Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), also known as acrylic glass or simply acrylic, is a transparent thermoplastic material commonly used in a wide range of applications. In dentistry, PMMA material has been greatly in demand thanks to its broad spectrum of beneficial features and applications. This thermoplastic has significantly impacted prosthetic dentistry over the last few decades. The following explore reasons why PMMA material is much in demand in dentistry:
1. Wide Applications in Dentistry:
PMMA has an array of applications in dental practices, including denture bases, partial denture frames, temporary crowns, orthodontic appliances, and mouth guards. It is also used in the fabrication of CAD/CAM milled interim restorations, custom impression trays, and obturators. This wide range of applications ensures every dental practitioner will have a demand for this versatile material.
2. Aesthetically Pleasing:
One of the main reasons PMMA is in high demand in dentistry is due to its aesthetic properties. PMMA-based prosthetics can be designed to closely mimic the appearance of natural teeth and gum tissue, providing greater confidence and satisfaction to patients. It can also be manipulated to match the desired shade, opacity or translucency, making it ideal for cosmetic dental applications.
3. Strong and Durable:
PMMA displays excellent mechanical properties, including strength, toughness, and durability, making it ideal for various dental applications. It's resistant to wear and tear, ensuring the longevity of PMMA-based dentures and restorations. It also resists breakage, offering durability and stability of dental appliances over an extended period, leading to its popularity among dental professionals.
4. Malleability and Easy Workability:
PMMA materials in dentistry are highly valued due to their ease of manipulation and processing. Its malleability allows the material to be heat-cured, cold-cured, or light-processed for various applications. This easy workability helps dental laboratories and clinics fabricate dental prosthetics and appliances with precision, contributing to reduced chair-time and improved patient comfort.
5. Biocompatibility:
PMMA has a high degree of biocompatibility, making it safe for use in various medical and dental applications. It’s non-toxic and does not irritate or sensitize the oral tissues, reducing the risk of adverse reactions. Its well-documented biocompatibility along with successful clinical outcomes have established its demand in the modern dental landscape.
6. Cost-Effectiveness:
Compared to other restorative materials like ceramics or metals, PMMA is considered relatively inexpensive. This cost-effectiveness is a significant factor driving its demand, particularly in terms of creating affordable prosthetics for a larger patient population.
7. Innovation and Technological Advancements:
With the advent of CAD/CAM technology in dentistry, there has been a surge of interest in using PMMA for milling temporary or prototype restorations. Its smooth milling characteristics make it an ideal material for computer-aided design and manufacturing processes.
Final prostheses using various materials are usually preceded by a PMMA prototype to evaluate the fit, form and function, increasing its demand. This approach helps in reducing the remakes and ensuring predictable outcomes.
Despite a few limitations such as potential for microbial adhesion and possible staining over time, the benefits of PMMA in dental applications far outweigh its drawbacks. Advancements in PMMA modification and treatment procedures are being researched to overcome these limitations and further enhance its properties.
In conclusion, the wide application base of PMMA, coupled with its aesthetic appeal, mechanical strength, easy workability, biocompatibility, cost-effectiveness, and adaptability to technological advancements, are the foundational reasons why PMMA is in high demand in the dental industry. 
Its versatile use, from temporary to permanent prosthetic solutions, signify its importance in comprehensive patient care. As dental material science evolves, and newer modifications of PMMA are introduced, it’s demand is forecasted to surge even further.
Therefore, PMMA continues to retain its place as a cornerstone material in prosthetic and restorative dentistry, proving itself indispensable to dental professionals and patients alike.