Effect of nanosecond laser assisted surface modification on physical and mechanical properties of denture base materials

Lasers are being used for modifying the surfaces of biomaterials to make them resistant to microbial adhesion. However, the effect of such surface modification on physical and mechanical properties has not been widely reported. The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of surface modification using laser patterning on the physical and mechanical properties of denture base materials. Nd: YAG nanosecond laser was used to create different patterns on two commercial denture base materials. Surface characteristics of the patterned specimens such as surface roughness, contact angle and resistance to microbial adhesion were measured. Laser patterned specimens with lower microbial adhesion were subjected to evaluation of mechanical (flexural strength and surface hardness) and physical (water sorption and solubility) properties using standard methods. Laser patterning increased the surface roughness, contact angle and the resistance to microbial adhesion. Laser patterning did not have any detrimental effects on mechanical and physical properties. However, a significant increase in surface hardness was observed in all patterned specimens. By fine-tuning the laser patterning parameters, it is possible to create surfaces with enhanced resistance to microbial adhesion without compromising the physical and mechanical properties of the material, which can ultimately lead to better oral health outcomes for denture users.