A Review on Silicone Biomaterials for Prosthodontics and Maxillofacial Prosthetic Applications

Silicone is a synthetic material composed of repeating units of silicon-oxygen bonds, forming a polymeric chain. Organic methyl groups are bonded to these silicon atoms, providing the foundation for synthetic silicone materials. Cross-linking reactions can transform silicone polymers into a 3D network by forming chemical bonds between adjacent polymeric chains. Crosslinking is typically accomplished through radicals, condensation, or addition reactions. In dentistry, polydimethylsiloxane has been widely employed for numerous clinical and laboratory procedures. This review aims to provide an academic discussion of the evolution of synthetic silicone, the different types of silicone materials, and their diverse uses in dentistry, including clinical and laboratory procedures. The distinctive chemical and physical properties of silicones set them apart from other polymers, enabling them to retain these beneficial characteristics under diverse environmental conditions. In contrast to organic polymers, silicone is composed of an alternating chain of oxygen and silicon atoms, with silicon atoms typically attached to organic or methyl groups. By varying the length of the oxygen-silicone chain, scientists can produce various silicone forms, including fluids, resins, and viscous elastomers. These synthetic silicones are used in a wide range of products, including waxes, repellents, polishes, non-stick coatings, and electrical insulation. This article explores silicon elastomers for dental applications by examining the chemistry, types, and properties of polysilicon, assessing its potential as a biomaterial for intraoral and extraoral applications, and reviewing recent advancements in polysilicon technology.