TiC-composite materials in applications for kinematic denture connections

Abstract

Purpose: This paper presents an own proposal for the construction of a ball latch intended for use in prosthetic dentistry. Attention was paid to the existing commercial constructions of elements of the same type, indicating their advantages and disadvantages. Based on the analysis of the present solutions, own ones were proposed.

Materials and methods: The following materials were chosen for the tests: pure titanium, 316 L V steel, Ti15Mo2.8Nb obtained using powder metallurgy and through mechanical alloying, 10 and 20% of titanium carbide - obtained using powder metallurgy, as well as 10 and 20% of graphite - obtained using powder metallurgy. For the prepared materials, tribological tests were performed using a friction simulator in a ring/shield system.

Results: Fairly extensive tests were performed to verify the suitability of the selected material for use in the specific conditions of the oral cavity. The performed tests showed that the proposed material is not only beneficial in relation to the existing commercial dental alloys but also meets the general criteria set for this type of elements.

Conclusions: A more beneficial use of two-part ball latches (two key parts - patrix, matrix) was noticed in comparison to latches consisting of three parts (patrix, insert, matrix). On the basis of the obtained test results, it can be concluded that the proposed own design of a ball latch is a good alternative for traditional constructional and material solutions of commercial ball latches.

Keywords: Ball latch; Commercial dental alloys; Operational stability; Prosthetic dentistry; Titanium-based composite.