PEEK Biomaterial Use for Chairside CAD/CAM Dental Restorations: Bridging the Gap to Future

Abstract

Background: Advanced computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD-CAM) technology led to the introduction of an increasing number of machinable materials suitable for dental prostheses. One of these materials is polyetheretherketone (PEEK), a high performance polymer recently used in dentistry with favorable physical, mechanical and chemical properties. Purpose: The aim of this study was to review the current published literature on the use of PEEK for the fabrication of dental prostheses with CAD-CAM techniques. Methods: Electronic database searches were performed using the terms “PEEK”, “CAD-CAM”, “dental”, “dentistry” to identify studies related to the use of PEEK for the fabrication of CAD-CAM prostheses. Results: A great number of in vitro studies are available in the current literature pointing out the noticeable properties of PEEK. The use of PEEK has been recommended for a wide range of CAD-CAM fabricated fixed and removable dental prostheses, occlusal splints, intra-radicular posts, implant abutments, customized healing abutments, space maintainers for pediatric dentistry, orthodontic appliances and provisional restorations. However, only a few clinical studies were identified. Conclusions: PEEK could be considered as a viable alternative for CAD-CAM dental appliances to well-established dental materials. Due to the scarcity of clinical data, clinical trials are needed to assess the longterm performance of PEEK prostheses.