Behavior of nanosilver and nanotitanium reinforced polymethyl methacrylate for dental applications

Abstract The study evaluated the mechanical, tribological, and cytocompatibility properties of silver nanoparticles and titanium dioxide nanoparticles reinforced into polymethyl methacrylate resin. Both nanoparticles were separately ball‐milled with polymethyl methacrylate, and a conventional compression molding technique prepared samples in a thermostatically controlled water bath. Samples were analyzed for flexural strength, polishability, three‐body abrasive wear, surface hardness, and cytotoxicity. The fracture mechanics and surface roughness were further analyzed using a field emission scanning electron microscope. Most properties showed improvement at the said concentration compared to the control group, while few did not show property enhancement. The cell proliferation and viability were not compromised. Within study limits, silver nanoparticles and titanium dioxide nanoparticles reinforced polymethyl methacrylate resin positively influenced the dental polymer to a certain extent. The nanocomposite is cytocompatible at the tested concentrations. Pre‐reaction of the polymer, treating nanoparticles with coupling agents, determining an optimal additive size and concentration, and use of effective dispersion technique may further enhance the properties of the nanocomposites.