PEEK – A New Material for CAD CAM Dentistry

PEEK – A New Material for CAD CAM Dentistry

PEEK (Polyetheretherketone) is a new material that has been increasingly applied in the field of CAD/CAM dentistry due to its numerous advantages. 
Material Properties
PEEK is a linear, aromatic, semi-crystalline thermoplastic high-performance polymer. It features high biocompatibility, excellent mechanical properties, high-temperature resistance, strong chemical stability, good polishability, high wear resistance, low plaque affinity, and high bonding strength with veneering composite materials and luting cements.
Applications in Dentistry
PEEK can be used to fabricate a variety of dental restorations, such as fixed and removable partial dentures, dental crowns, dental bridges, implant abutments, healing abutments, occlusal splints, and root canal posts.
Advantageous Characteristics
Good Biocompatibility: PEEK has outstanding biocompatibility. It has been used in the implant field for many years and is the preferred material for patients who are allergic to traditional implant materials.
Favorable Mechanical Properties: PEEK has better wear resistance than conventional PMMA resin teeth and plastic steel teeth used for dental restorations. It has relatively high structural strength. For example, a three-unit PEEK bridge can withstand chewing forces ranging from 1200N to 1383N.
Elastic Modulus Similar to Bone: PEEK has an elastic modulus of 4GPa, which is similar to that of bone. It can act like a shock absorber to absorb the forces generated during chewing, reducing the stress transmitted to the abutment teeth, cushioning the impact of occlusal forces, and protecting the opposing teeth as well as the surrounding jawbone and mucosal tissues. This contributes to improved wearing comfort for patients.
Aesthetically Pleasing: PEEK materials are available in a variety of colors, ranging from white, tooth-colored to gum-colored. Moreover, they can be veneered with acrylic resins or ceramics, better meeting the aesthetic requirements of dental restorations.
Convenient for Processing: PEEK can be easily shaped through CAD/CAM technology without the need for crystallization and sintering. The production efficiency is high, and patients can usually receive the restoration within about one hour. This not only saves energy and clinic space but also significantly improves the efficiency of dental treatment. Additionally, PEEK dentures are easy to adjust, grind, and polish, and are compatible with light-cured composite resins.
Non-metallic Advantages: As a non-metallic material, PEEK hardly conducts heat. Therefore, patients will not experience adverse reactions when consuming hot or cold foods and beverages, providing a better wearing experience.

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