The full form of HEMA in dentistry is 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate. HEMA is a monomer that is based on MAA (methacrylic acid). The main use of HEMA in dentistry is in producing biomaterials like composite resins and dental adhesives. HEMA has been a popular choice for dental adhesives until now because of its properties of high hydrophilicity. After multiple research, it was found that the increased hydrophilicity is also the reason for the hydrolytic degradation of the adhesive interface.
What Else Should You Know About HEMA?To overcome the shortcomings of HEMA, new materials were developed. The latest technology uses adhesive that is HEMA-free. As per some of the research, no difference was found between the performance of HEMA-based adhesive and HEMA-free adhesive. Many dentists across the world continue to use both types of adhesive until and unless there is a specific guideline regarding the use of adhesive from the dental association of the country. There is a lot to be established when it comes to HEMA and its performance.
Other full forms of HEMA are Poly 2 Hydroxyethyl Methacrylate, Hydroxyethyl Mercapturic Acid and Health Education Media Association.