Does Addition of Silver Nanoparticles to Denture Base Resin Increase Its Thermal Conductivity?

  Objective: Studies have demonstrates that physical properties of denture base affect patient satisfaction and acceptance. Thermal conductivity is among the most important properties of denture base influencing the sense of taste and gingival health. The conventionally used acrylic resin has a low coefficient of thermal conductivity. This study aimed to improve the thermal conductivity of acrylic resin by adding small concentrations of nanosilver.   Methods: In this laboratory experimental study, 0.2wt% and 2wt% silver nanoparticles measuring 10-100 nm were mixed with the conventional denture base acrylic powder. Cylindrical samples were fabricated and thermal conductivity was measured. One-way ANOVA and Scheffe’s post-hoc test were used to compare the mean thermal conductivity of different groups. Data were analyzed using SPSS 15 and p<0.05 was considered statistically significant.   Results: The thermal conductivity of resins reinforced with nanosilver was significantly higher than that of the conventional resin. By increasing the amount of nanoparticles in the acrylic powder, thermal conductivity further increased.   Conclusion: Addition of small amounts of nanosilver to denture base acrylic resin increases its thermal conductivity.