Chapter 16: Vocabulary

Question 1

a long-chain, high molecular weight molecule produced by the linking of many low molecular weight monomer molecules

Answer 1

Polymer

Question 2

low molecular weight molecules that are joined to form polymers; as used in dentistry, monomers are usually liquids

Answer 2

Monomer

Question 3

the act of forming polymers; the process can be activated by chemicals, heat, or light

Answer 3

Polymerization

Question 4

common form of polymerization for dental materials; monomer molecules are added one to another sequentially as the reactive group on one molecule initiates bonding with an adjacent monomer molecule and frees another reactive group (free radical) to repeat the process

Answer 4

Addition Polymerization

Question 5

a reactive group on one end of a monomer that initiates the joining of adjacent monomer molecules to form a polymer

Answer 5

Free Radical

Question 6

a polymer composed of numerous methyl methacrylate monomers linked together into a long chain

Answer 6

Poly (Methyl Methacrylate)

Question 7

liquid added to acrylic resin to soften it and make it more pliable

Answer 7

Plasticizer

Question 8

numerous microscopic holes or voids within a material; often caused during polymerization of resins when monomer vaporizes and is lost; can also be caused by entrapping of air during mixing of powder and liquid

Answer 8

Porosity

Question 9

a device used for the replacement of missing tissues. It can serve both cosmetic and functional roles

Answer 9

Prosthesis

Question 10

a soft liner that is used in patients who have problems with hard acrylic denture bases; it is expected to last for 1 to 3 years

Answer 10

Long-Term Soft Liner

Question 11

a soft provisional liner used to improve tissue health; also called a tissue conditioner; typically, it lasts from a few days to a few weeks

Answer 11

Short-Term Soft Liner