What is the polymer of an acrylic commonly referred to as?

The polymer of an acrylic is commonly referred to as powder. Acrylics are a type of synthetic polymer made from a variety of monomers; when they are processed into a usable form for dental applications, they are typically found in a powdered state. This powder is then combined with a liquid monomer to initiate a polymerization reaction, resulting in the solid polymer known as acrylic resin, which is widely used in dental prosthetics, appliances, and restorative materials.

In dental applications, the powder used is often combined with a liquid to create a workable material that can be molded into various shapes before it sets. The understanding of this process is essential for dental professionals who work with acrylic materials in creating crowns, dentures, and other dental products that require a durable, biocompatible resin.