In vitro comparative evaluation of the transverse strength of three provisional fixed partial dental prostheses materials of different chemical composition

Aim: Evaluation and comparison of the transverse strength of three provisionalfixed partial dental prostheses materials of different chemical composition with varying thickness. Material and Methods: Total ninety samples of three different sizes (35mm x10mm x1mm; 35mm x10mm x1.5mm; and 35mm x10mm x2mm) were fabricated in three provisional fixed partial dental prostheses materials of different chemical composition (Revotek LC, Protemp 3, and DPI PMMAresin). All the samples were stored at room temperature for twenty-four hours in artificial saliva before testing. All the specimens were subjected to three-point bending tests by using universal testing machine at cross head speed of 1mm/min to evaluate transverse strength. One-way ANOVA followed by Newman-Keuls test was used for stastically analyzing the results. Results: Protemp 3 exhibited superior transverse strength at any given thickness when compared with the other two materials. DPI autopolymerising PMMA resin showed least transverse strength amongst the three groups. Conclusion: Protemp 3 can be usedfor provisional long span fixed partial dental prostheses in both anterior and posterior regions. DPI and Revotek LC materials should be restricted for temporization of anterior fixed partial dental prosthesis or posterior short span bridges where less forces are exerted.