Effect of Post-Curing Methods on the Physico-Chemical Properties of Printed Resins for Definitive Restorations: a Scoping Review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.21270/archi.v15i6.6827Keywords:
Three-Dimensional Printing, Dental Materials, Light-CuringAbstract
The objective of this scoping review was to map and analyze the scientific evidence regarding the influence of different post-curing methods on the properties of 3D-printed resins intended for definitive restorations. The search was conducted in the PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, and Lilacs databases, resulting in the inclusion of 12 laboratory studies. The results demonstrated that post-curing exerts a significant influence on the degree of conversion, microhardness, flexural strength, elastic modulus, fracture toughness, surface roughness, gloss, color stability, translucency, and biocompatibility. In general, increasing post-curing time and using specific photopolymerization devices promoted greater monomer conversion, reduction of residual monomers, and improvement in mechanical properties, especially microhardness, flexural strength, and structural stiffness. Regarding optical properties, most studies observed color changes within clinically acceptable limits, although excessive post-curing times increased the tendency for yellowing in some resins. Surface roughness and gloss were influenced by both the post-curing method and the cleaning and finishing protocols. Among the devices evaluated, UV light post-curing systems associated with temperature control showed the most consistent results for mechanical strength and overall performance. It is concluded that the post-curing method is indispensable for optimizing the properties of 3D printed resins for definitive restorations, with UV light and controlled heating protocols being the most promising, although standardized studies are still needed to establish definitive clinical recommendations.
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