Abstract

SEABRA, Eduardo José Guerra; LIMA, Isabela Pinheiro Cavalcanti; MATSUNO, Patrícia Marie  and  PAIVA, Ana Clara Soares. Surface roughness of acrylic resin after four different polishing techniques. RGO, Rev. gaúch. odontol. (Online) [online]. 2011, vol.59, n.1, pp. 45-50. ISSN 1981-8637.

OBJECTIVE: This study assessed the surface roughness of an acrylic resin used in temporary crowns after four different polishing techniques, since effective control of the dental biofilm is essential for preventing and fighting diseases such as caries and periodontal disease. METHODS: This work assessed the surface smoothness of specimens made from self-curing acrylic resin specifically for this purpose. The specimens were finished and polished using the same techniques used on temporary crowns for fixed prosthodontics. A profilometer (Surtronic-3 with a 0.25 cut off) was then used to determine the surface roughness of each specimen. Two extra specimens were used as positive and negative controls. RESULTS: Specimens polished with Sof Lex discs (3M, Sumaré, Brasil) presented the smoothest surface. CONCLUSION: Dental surgeons need to be aware of the importance of polishing direct and indirect restorations properly.

Keywords : Crowns; Dental plaque; Dental polishing.