Surface changes and microbiological effects following shot blast polishing with viscoelastic media of the mucosal surface of resin denture bases were examined. Average surface roughness (Ra) and the depth of surface removal of specimens were measured over time, and the clinical number of microbial adhesions on the mucosal surface of dentures was clinically assessed. The results obtained showed no changes in Ra after 20 s of polishing, Ra of <0.2 µm, and a depth of surface removal < 20 µm. This method of finishing did not affect the fit of the mucosal surface of the dentures. Furthermore, the adhesion of microorganisms to the mucosal surface of dentures was significantly suppressed. Shot blast polishing with viscoelastic media is useful for finishing the mucosal surface of resin denture bases.
Keywords: denture polishing; denture surface; microbial adhesion; surface roughness.