PMMA
Also written as: PMMA — Polymethyl Methacrylate
Abbreviation for polymethyl methacrylate, a thermoplastic acrylic material widely used in dental laboratories for provisional restorations, denture bases, and milled temporaries.
Full Definition
PMMA (polymethyl methacrylate) is a hard, transparent acrylic polymer used extensively in dental laboratory fabrication. It is available as a milling blank for CAD/CAM systems or as a powder-liquid system for conventional fabrication. In laboratory documentation, PMMA is commonly referenced as the material of choice for long-term provisional crowns, bridges, and full-arch temporaries. Editors should note that PMMA is not the same as bis-acrylic composite, which is a separate class of provisional material. In formal technical writing, spell out the full chemical name on first reference followed by the abbreviation in parentheses.
Usage
Usage note: Always written in all caps. Distinguish from bis-acrylic composites, which are chemically distinct despite similar clinical applications.
In Context
- "The provisional bridge framework was milled from a PMMA block prior to final characterisation." — Laboratory work order
- "PMMA is preferred for long-term temporaries because of its ease of chairside adjustment and repair." — Dental materials product guide