Evaluation of Retentive Strength of 50 Endodontically-Treated Single-Rooted Mandibular Second Premolars Restored with Cast Post Cores Using 5 Common Luting (Cement) Agents.

BACKGROUND A luting agent is a dental cement used to secure a dental restoration. This study aimed to evaluate retentive strength of 50 endodontically-treated single-rooted mandibular second premolars (extracted) restored using 5 common luting (cement) agents. MATERIAL AND METHODS Fifty single-rooted mandibular second premolars with adequate root length and uniform size/shape were decoronated. After completing endodontic biomechanical preparation and obturation, root canals of all specimens were prepared to receive a cast post core. Depending upon cementation type, CPC specimens were divided in 5 groups (10 each) (Gp): Zinc phosphate (Gp ZP), polycarboxylate (Gp PC), glass ionomer (Gp GI), resin-modified glass ionomer (Gp RGI), and resin cement (Gp RC). Retentive strength was determined using the adhesive failure pull-out test. Mean/standard deviations were calculated for tensile forces (in kilograms) and differences were determined using analysis of variance (ANOVA). Multiple comparison was performed using the t test. A P value of ≤0.05 indicated a statistically significant difference. RESULTS The order of mean tensile strength from higher to lower was Gp RC (21.46) >Gp RGI (18.17) >Gp GI (16.07) >Gp ZP (15.33) >Gp PC (13.63). Differences in retentive strengths between the cements were significant (P≤0.05). Multiple-group comparisons showed that except for Gp ZP and Gp GI, all groups differed significantly from each other. CONCLUSIONS All investigated cements provided optimal retentive strengths, with wide differences between them. Resin cements should be used when CPC removal is not anticipated, while polycarboxylate or zinc phosphate should be used if CPC removal is anticipated.

Ligaplants: A Revolutionary Concept in Implant Dentistry.

Replacement of the missing tooth with an implant has gained popularity among patients. The advent of periodontal tissue engineering has brought about a revolution not only in the field of periodontology but also in the field of implant dentistry at large. Currently, the development of a periodontal ligament (PDL) attachment around dental implants has now become an important new therapeutic tool to replace lost teeth. PDL houses various vital cells that are important in the dynamic relationship between the tooth and the bone. Thus, ligaplants are now an available option to improve the biological performance and to prolong the life of the prosthesis.