%0 Journal Article
%T The Effect of Different Storage Conditions on the Physical Properties of Pigmented Medical Grade I Silicone Maxillofacial Material
%A Ayman A. Al-Dharrab
%A Seham B. Tayel
%A Mona H. Abodaya
%J ISRN Dentistry
%D 2013
%R 10.1155/2013/582051
%X Objective. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of different storage solutions that simulate acidic, alkaline, and sebum conditions on the physical properties of pigmented (colorant elastomer) cosmesil M511 maxillofacial prosthetic material. Materials and Methods. Sixty specimens were prepared according to the manufacturer's instructions and were tested before and after immersion of different storage conditions for six months at 37£¿¡ãC. The following tests were performed: color changes (group I), solution absorption (group II), surface roughness (group III), and scanning electron microscopy (group IV). Results. There were no significant changes observed in the color and solution absorption tests while surface roughness revealed significant difference between control group and other testing storage medium groups, and this result was supported by SEM analysis that revealed limited surface changes. Conclusions. Cosmaseil material is an acceptable cross-linked formulation that withstands storage in different solutions with variable pH. The addition of pigment cannot vary the physical properties of these materials. Surface roughness test as well as SEM microscopic study showed moderate changes indicating a limited effect on the surface of the material. 1. Introduction In contemporary society where beauty is considered essential, patients with facial mutilations due to congenital malformations, oncologic surgery, or trauma are often marginalized [1, 2]. In view of this reality, the goal of facial prosthetic technology is to offer individuals¡¯ aesthetic and comfort while improving their self-esteem and quality of life [3, 4]. Maxillofacial prostheses are used to transform congenital, developmental, and acquired defects of the head and neck into natural appearing reproductions of the missing parts, thus, providing an acceptable appearance and improved function. One of the Modern materials for external prostheses includes vinyl plastisols, polymethylmethacrylates, polyurethanes, latex, and silicone elastomers [5]. The prosthodontists are limited by the materials used in fabrication for facial prosthesis, movable tissue beds, graft and flap applications, unsuitability of anatomic undercuts, and patient acceptance toward the use of prosthesis [6]. There is no ideal facial prosthetic material, although there have been improvements in the last few decades, and silicone rubbers have established the current state-of-the-art material. Despite the advances in reconstructive and plastic surgery, replacement of the intricate facial structures is still required,
%U http://www.hindawi.com/journals/isrn.dentistry/2013/582051/