Knowledge, Attitudes, and Clinical Practices Regarding Denture Base Materials Among Dental Students and Practitioners

Abstract

Denture base materials are critical for the success of removable prosthodontic treatments, influencing both functional performance and longevity. Differences in the physical, mechanical, and biological properties of these materials may influence clinical performance, patient satisfaction, and material selection. Recent advances in digital dentistry, including CAD/CAM and 3D printing, have introduced alternative denture base materials and fabrication techniques; however, their routine clinical use remains limited. This cross-sectional study assessed the knowledge, attitudes, and clinical practices of 171 dental students and practitioners in Libya, regarding denture base materials, as well as factors affecting their selection. Data were collected using a structured self-administered questionnaire and analyzed with descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests (p < 0.05). While 69% correctly identified polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) as the predominant material, 64.3% recognized that high-impact acrylic resins improve impact strength. Conventional heat-cured PMMA remained the most frequently used material in clinical practice (57.9%), whereas routine use of CAD/CAM-milled and 3D-printed denture bases was reported by only 9.4% and 8.2% of participants, respectively. High levels of knowledge were observed in 41.5% of participants and were significantly associated with clinical experience (p = 0.021) and specialty (p = 0.003). Material selection was primarily influenced by patient preference (64.3%), mechanical strength (62.0%), and cost (50.3%). Despite increasing awareness of modern denture base technologies, their routine clinical implementation remains limited, highlighting the need for enhanced education, training, and access to digital tools.