Purpose: The purpose of the present study was to evaluate some important me
chanical properties of an experimental silicone material (PM1) to assess it
s potential as a mouthguard material. Materials and Methods: The hardness,
tear strength, tensile properties, and energy absorption properties of the
silicone material were determined and compared with those of 2 commercially
available materials (Bioplast, a polyvinylacetate polyethylene, and Polysh
ield, a silicone). Results: Bioplast was significantly harder than Polyshie
ld and PM1. Polyshield was significantly harder than PM1. Bioplast had a si
gnificantly higher tear strength than both Polyshield and PM1. The tensile
strength of Bioplast was significantly greater than that of Polyshield and
PM1. PM1 had a significantly higher tensile strength than Polyshield. Biopl
ast had a significantly lower energy absorption capacity at 500 N than both
Polyshield and PM1,with PM1 having a significantly higher value than Polys
hield. At 1,000 and 1,500 N, Bioplast had a significantly higher energy abs
orption than both Polyshield and PM1. Conclusion: It was concluded that PM1
showed better energy absorption properties than Polyshield and better ener
gy absorption properties than Bioplast at lower impact forces. PM1 was soft
er and had better tear and tensile properties than Polyshield. The results
of the present study suggest that the new material has a good potential for
use as a mouthguard material.