Work

Digital Polyetheretherketone Complete Dentures: A Clinical Study and Finite Element Analysis

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Purpose To compare the clinical outcomes and biomechanical performance of digitally fabricated polyether-ether-ketone (PEEK) complete dentures with conventional polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) dentures using finite element analysis (FEA). Methods Ten edentulous patients were enrolled. Each received both conventional PMMA dentures and digitally duplicated PEEK dentures. Tissue adaptation was evaluated using light-body silicone and 3D deviation analysis. Masticatory efficiency was assessed spectrophotometrically, and patient satisfaction via questionnaires. Paired t-tests were used for comparisons. The coefficient of friction between PEEK and mucosa was measured in vitro for the first time. Together with the concurrently measured PMMA–mucosa friction coefficient, these values were incorporated into finite element analysis software to evaluate the stress distribution and displacement of the dentures, mucosa and alveolar bone under centric and lateral occlusal conditions. Results No significant differences were found between groups in denture–tissue adaptation or patient satisfaction at 1, 3 and 6 months ( P > .05). However, PEEK dentures showed significantly higher masticatory efficiency ( P < .01). FEA demonstrated more uniform mucosal stress distribution and reduced denture deformation in the PEEK group under both occlusal conditions. Alveolar bone stress distribution was similar and remained within physiological limits in both groups. Conclusions Digitally fabricated PEEK complete dentures achieve comparable adaptation and satisfaction to PMMA dentures, while providing improved masticatory efficiency and favourable biomechanical performance. Clinical Significance PEEK complete dentures fabricated via digital workflows show strong potential as a reliable alternative to conventional dentures, with promising clinical applicability.

Source: International Dental Journal

DOI: 10.1016/j.identj.2026.111227