Evonik introduces two PEEK grades for long-term dental prosthetics
Amid growing demand for alternatives to metal-alloy materials for dental bridges and fixed or removable restorations, German chemicals company Evonik has introduced two polyether ether ketone (PEEK) grades, Vestakeep DC4760 and Vestakeep DC4780, for long-term dental prosthetics, expanding its range of metal-free, lightweight dental materials. Developed by its High-Performance Polymers business line, the grades combine bone-like stiffness, durability, biocompatibility and processability for dental laboratories.
According to Marc Knebel, head of Evonik’s Peek medical applications team, their natural colour, neutral taste and low weight make them suitable for patients seeking metal-free options. Both grades use a patented formulation designed to provide high structural rigidity. An independent study published in Dental Materials, conducted by researchers from Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin and the Einstein Center Digital Future, found that their stiffness was sufficient for implant-supported dentures and other high-load dental prosthetics.
Jacques-Antoine Raust, business manager in Evonik’s Medical Systems team, said the combination of increased stiffness and retained flexural strength broadens their use in durable, multi-unit dental frameworks while maintaining patient comfort.
The grades also offer high polishability for machining with established dental laboratory equipment and retain the wear and plaque resistance of earlier Vestakeep dental products. Their increased stiffness can improve modulus matching between Peek frameworks and acrylic veneers, potentially extending denture longevity. Vestakeep DC4760 is available in a dentin colour, while DC4780 is gingiva-coloured; both come as rods or computer-aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM) discs and are biocompatible for long-term mucosal contact.
Evonik said it will also provide regulatory assistance to customers seeking Medical Device Regulation (MDR) registration for their products.
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