What is the meaning of Polylactic Acid?
Polylactic Acid is widely used term in Dental Materials.
Polylactic acid, commonly abbreviated as PLA, is a bioresorbable polymer that is used in dental materials. It is derived from renewable sources such as corn starch or sugarcane and is considered to be a more sustainable alternative to traditional petroleum-based polymers. PLA has gained popularity in dentistry due to its biocompatibility, meaning it is well tolerated by the human body and does not cause significant adverse reactions.
In dental materials, PLA is often used to fabricate temporary crowns, bridges, or denture bases. It can be processed through various manufacturing methods including 3D printing, injection molding, or milling. PLA-based dental materials are easy to work with and provide good aesthetics and functional properties.
One notable characteristic of PLA is its ability to biodegrade in the body over time. This means that PLA-based dental restorations can gradually break down and be absorbed by the surrounding tissues, reducing the need for removal or replacement procedures. However, it is important to note that the degradation rate of PLA can vary depending on factors such as material composition, processing techniques, and the specific dental application.
Overall, polylactic acid in dental materials offers the potential for more sustainable and biocompatible solutions in dentistry, contributing to the advancement of modern dental care.
Feel free to get in touch with experts, if you have any questions about Polylactic Acid. You can also browse more terms meanings on our dictionary page.