PMMA
Pronunciation: P-M-M-A
Also written as: PMMA — Polymethyl Methacrylate
Polymethyl methacrylate; a thermoplastic acrylic polymer used extensively in dental prosthetics, including denture bases, provisional restorations, and custom impression trays.
Full Definition
PMMA is formed by the polymerisation of methyl methacrylate (MMA) monomer and exists as a powder-liquid or pre-polymerised block form in dental applications. It is the most widely used material for complete and partial denture bases, as well as for milled CAD/CAM restorations. Editors encountering this acronym should ensure it is defined on first use in any manuscript. In formal writing, 'poly(methyl methacrylate)' with parentheses is used in chemistry-oriented journals, while 'polymethyl methacrylate' is standard in clinical journals. PMMA should not be confused with MMA, which refers specifically to the unpolymerised monomer.
Usage
Usage note: Define on first use. In chemistry journals, 'poly(methyl methacrylate)' is preferred. Do not use 'acrylic' as a sole synonym without qualification, as multiple acrylics exist in dentistry.
In Context
- "The denture base was constructed from heat-cured PMMA in accordance with ISO 1567 specifications." — Materials and methods section
- "Residual monomer levels in PMMA denture bases have been associated with mucosal sensitivity in susceptible patients." — Review article