Introduction

For decades, acrylic resin complete dentures have been used to improve the quality of life for completely edentulous patients. The considerable cost, aesthetics, and ease of processing and repair of acrylic resin materials are the major reasons for its clinical success. However, fracture of dentures has been a challenging problem that occured in 68% of the cases after 3 years. Maxillary denture fractures are mostly caused by fatigue and impact failure, while 80% of mandibular dentures are fractured by impact.

Several attempts have been made to improve the mechanical properties of acrylic resin denture materials among them is the incorporation of reinforcing E-glass fibres. Although several studies documented the significant improvement in the flexural strength, impact strength and fatigue resistance of the acrylic resin material were attained. The processing of the fibres seems to be difficult and technique-sensitive besides their poor bonding to the acrylic resin which is another shortcoming.

Advanced E-glass fibres mesh that is specially treated and impregnated with light cured resin have been recently introduced. A part from its strengthening and esthetic advantages it provides better bonding to the acrylic resin and, simpler manipulation through the use of a light curing system.

The reinforcement process involves the incorporation of new material into the dental prostheses. Biocompatibility and mechanical characteristics are the principal parameters for the applications of new materials in the dentistry. The interaction between the oral environment and new materials may result in the release of biodegradation products which may cause local or systemic undesirable side effects.

Saliva is a complex mixture of secretions from major and minor Salivary glands where all the fixed and removable prostheses are immersed in. Salivary immunoglobulin A (S-IgA) is the main immunoglobulin secreted by the immune system in the oral cavity. It compromises the first line of specific immune defence against pathogens, toxins and antigens at mucosal surfaces. The largest amount of S-IgA is secreted by the minor salivary glands.

The effect of glass fibre reinforcement on the mechanical properties of acrylic resins has been investigated extensively. However, a gap still exists between in vitro and clinical investigations concerning the materials biocompatibility and their potential to cause immunogenic adverse effect.

Therefore, the purpose of the present study was to evaluate the effect of denture base reinforcement using light-cured E-glass fibres meshwork on the level of salivary immunoglobulin A (A-IgA) in patients wearing complete dentures.