The Use of PEKK versus PEEK in the Fabrication of maxillary definitive Obturators

Purpose. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical performance of CAD-CAM-milled PEKK frameworks versus PEEK frameworks in the fabrication of clasp-retained maxillary obturators, assessing retention outcomes and patient satisfaction over a sixmonth follow-up period. Materials and Methods. Ten patients with maxillary defects (Armany class I) were randomly assigned to two equal groups (n=5). Group 1 received obturators with CADCAM- milled PEKK frameworks (Pekkton, Cendres+Métaux), while Group 2 received obturators with CAD-CAM-milled PEEK frameworks (Bio-HPP, bredent), both incorporating hollow bulb extensions fabricated from PMMA. A standardized digital workflow including exocad software design, and subtractive manufacturing was employed for all prostheses. Framework retention was measured using a digital forcemeter, and patient satisfaction was assessed immediately, at 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months post-insertion. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS v25.0 with independent t-tests and chi-square tests (α=0.05). Results. Both materials demonstrated comparable retention values throughout the sixmonth evaluation period, with no statistically significant differences between groups at any time point (p > 0.05). Mean retention values ranged from 12.5-13.5 N across both groups. Patient satisfaction rates were identical (60% satisfied in each group), with no significant difference detected (p=1.000). Conclusions. PEKK and PEEK frameworks show comparable clinical efficiency regarding retention and patient satisfaction in maxillary obturator prostheses. However, PEKK represents a suitable alternative to conventional materials for obturator fabrication based on its superior mechanical profile reported in laboratory analyses.