In vitro evaluation of color characterization, mechanical properties, and antimicrobial activity of 3D-printed provisional dental resin incorporated with Ficus carica (Fig) seed extract.

Background Of The Study: known for its bioactive phytochemicals and antimicrobial potential; however, studies evaluating its outcome on the color, mechanical properties and antimicrobial activity of 3D-printed provisional dental resins are lacking. So this study evaluate the effect of seed extract incorporation on the color assessment, flexural strength, compressive strength, microhardness and antimicrobial activity of 3D-printed provisional crown and bridge resin.

Materials And Methods: A total of 240 samples were prepared, with 60 samples allocated to four groups based on 0 %, 1.5 %, 2.5 %, and 5 % of seed extract incorporated into 3D provisional resin. Color analysis was evaluated using a spectrophotometer at baseline. Mechanical properties including flexural strength, compressive strength, and Vickers microhardness were assessed according to standardized protocols. Antimicrobial activity was tested against C albicans, S aureus, and P gingivalis by measuring zones of inhibition and calculating colony-forming units (CFU/mL). Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA, followed by Tukey's HSD post hoc test. A p-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results: Color property improved, with ΔE decreasing from 0.5042 ± 0.186 (control) to 0.0700 ± 0.026 in the 5 % group, remaining within clinically acceptable limits. The Group D (5 %) showed significantly enhanced mechanical properties compared to the control (p < 0.001). Mean compressive strength increased from 65.92 ± 1.02 MPa (control) to 76.09 ± 0.57 MPa in the 5 % group. Flexural strength improved from 55.77 ± 0.49 MPa to 69.53 ± 0.60 MPa, and microhardness increased from 11.17 ± 0.50 VHN to 14.02 ± 0.31 VHN. Antimicrobial activity demonstrated a dose-dependent increase, with the 5 % group showing the highest inhibition zones and greatest reduction in microbial counts across all tested organisms.

Conclusion: seed extract incorporation especially at 5 % enhances the mechanical strength, color, and antimicrobial efficacy of 3D-printed provisional crown and bridge resin.