PEEK high performance polymers: A review of properties and clinical applications in Prosthodontics and Restorative Dentistry

Abstract:
Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) is a biocompatible thermoplastic material which has been used in dentistry for several years. A modified PEEK material containing 20% ceramic fillers (BioHPP; bredent GmbH & Co.KG) has been used for dental applications such as FDPs, implant and RDP and Overdenture frameworks, endocrowns, crown copings, RBFDPs, as well as healing abutments.

CAD-CAM or conventional casting procedures are available for the fabrication of PEEK frameworks.

This material presents good mechanical and polishing properties, low plaque affinity and elasticity between cancellous and rigid bone. Another advantage of this modified PEEK material is the high bond strength with PMMA or indirect composite materials. PEEK is also radiolucent and presents with low specific weight that permits the fabrication of lighter prostheses providing high patient satisfaction and comfort during function.

The clinical use of Peek based on the current literature will be presented for prostheses such as Implant frameworks ( All -on -four), Partial denture frameworks, Overdenture frameworks, Resin Bonded Fixed Dental Prostheses, Single or Multiple Unit FDPs and Endocrowns, presenting the pros and cons of using this material instead of already established dental materials.