Evaluation of Oral Mucosa Elastomers for a 3D Oral Simulation Model.

(1) Background: In order to conduct in vitro studies regarding muco-supported dentures, it is necessary to have a simulation model that simulates the oral mucosa, as it is the main influencing factor for their retention and stabilisation. The aim of this study is to perform tensile and wettability tests in three different elastomers to identify the best material for simulating the oral mucosa. (2) Methods: A tensile test was performed according to ISO 527-1 and a compressive test was performed according to ISO 604:2002, at a constant speed of 10 mm/min. The E-modulus was calculated. A wettability test was performed according to ISO 19403-2. Shore A hardness was measured according to ISO 868:2003. All values were compared with the oral mucosa data. (3) Results: Tensile E-modulus calculation revealed no significant difference between Molloplast B and EXA'lence Light Body. The mean drop angle calculation revealed no significant difference between Ufi Gel SC and Molloplast B. The compression E-modulus showed significant differences for Ufi Gel SC and EXA'lence Light Body, while Molloplast B showed no significant deviation. Ufi Gel SC has a similar Shore A hardness to the other materials. (4) Conclusions: Molloplast B and Ufi Gel SC are the most similar elastomers to the alveolar mucosa.