Use of polyetherketone (PEEK) as an alternative to metal alloys in removable prostheses
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.61347/rcem.v2i1.e17Keywords:
Metal alloys, chromium-cobalt, PEEK, polyetherketone, removable partial dentureAbstract
Partial edentulism remains a common condition that demands functional, esthetic, and biocompatible prosthetic alternatives. Although metallic alloys, especially cobalt-chromium, have been used for their strength and stability, they present limitations related to esthetics, weight, metallic taste, electrogalvanism, and potential allergic reactions. The objective of this review was to analyze the use of polyetherketone (PEEK) as an alternative to metallic alloys in removable prostheses, considering its mechanical principles, effects of artificial aging, and clinical performance. The research was conducted as a systematic literature review, guided by the PRISMA 2020 statement. PubMed, Scopus, SciELO, and Web of Science were consulted, including studies published between 2014 and 2024 in Spanish, English, and Portuguese. After the identification, screening, and eligibility process, 21 documents were included for the final analysis. The results showed that cobalt-chromium exhibited greater initial retention; However, PEEK, especially BioHPP processed using CAD/CAM, showed better prosthetic fit, less deformation, adequate fatigue resistance, and favorable clinical performance. It is concluded that PEEK is a viable alternative in removable prostheses, although it does not completely replace Cr-Co, and therefore its use should be individualized according to clinical conditions.
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