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.

Effect of fiber-reinforced direct restorative materials on the fracture resistance of endodontically treated mandibular molars restored with a conservative endodontic cavity design.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate the fracture strength of teeth restored using fiber-reinforced direct restorative materials after endodontic treatment with a conservative mesio-occlusal access cavity design. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 100 extracted intact mandibular first molars were selected and distributed into a positive control group where teeth left intact and the following four test groups comprised of teeth with conservative mesio-occlusal access cavities that had undergone root canal treatment (n = 20/group): access cavity without restoration (negative control), bulk-fill resin composite with horizontal glass fiber post reinforcement, fiber-reinforced composite with bulk-fill resin and bulk-fill resin composite. Following thermocycling (10,000 cycles), fracture resistance was measured using a universal testing machine. Statistical analyses (one-way analysis of variance and the Tamhane test) were performed, and statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. RESULTS: Groups with minimally invasive access cavities had lower fracture strength than intact teeth, regardless of the restoration material (p < 0.05). Fiber-reinforced composite groups demonstrated higher fracture strength than bulk-fill resin composite alone (p < 0.05). Fracture types varied among groups, with restorable fractures predominant in the fiber-reinforced composite groups. CONCLUSION: This study suggests that using fiber-reinforced composite materials, especially in combination with bulk-fill resin composites, can effectively enhance the fracture strength of endodontically treated teeth with conservative access cavities. However, using only bulk-fill resin composite is not recommended based on the fracture strength results. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: When teeth that undergo endodontic treatment are restored using a conservative access cavity design and fiber-reinforced composite materials, especially in combination with bulk-fill resin composites, the fracture strength of the teeth can be effectively increased.

Comparative analysis of stress distribution in residual roots with different canal morphologies: evaluating CAD/CAM glass fiber and other post-core materials.

BACKGROUND: The selection of post-core material holds significant importance in endodontically treated teeth, influencing stress distribution in the dental structure after restoration. The use of computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) glass fiber post-core possesses a better adaptation for different root canal morphologies, but whether this results in a more favorable stress distribution has not been clearly established. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study employed finite element analysis to establish three models of post-core crown restoration with normal, oversized, and dumbbell-shaped root canals. The three models were restored using three different materials: CAD/CAM glass fiber post-core (CGF), prefabricated glass fiber post and resin core (PGF), and cobalt-chromium integrated metal post-core (Co-Cr), followed by zirconia crown restoration. A static load was applied and the maximum equivalent von Mises stress, maximum principal stress, stress distribution plots, and the peak of maximum displacement were calculated for dentin, post-core, crown, and the cement acting as the interface between the post-core and the dentin. RESULTS: In dentin of three different root canal morphology, it was observed that PGF exhibited the lowest von Mises stresses, while Co-Cr exhibited the highest ones under a static load. CGF showed similar stress distribution to that of Co-Cr, but the stresses were more homogeneous and concentrated apically. In oversized and dumbbell-shaped root canal remnants, the equivalent von Mises stress in the cement layer using CGF was significantly lower than that of PGF. CONCLUSIONS: In oversized root canals and dumbbell-shaped root canals, CGF has shown good performance for restoration of endodontically treated teeth. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: This study provides a theoretical basis for clinicians to select post-core materials for residual roots with different root canal morphologies and should help to reduce the occurrence of complications such as root fracture and post-core debonding.

Fracture resistance and failure mode of three esthetic CAD-CAM post and core restorations.

BACKGROUND: The rising demand for improved aesthetics has driven the utilization of recently introduced aesthetic materials for creating custom post and core restorations. However, information regarding the fracture resistance of these materials remains unclear, which limits their practical use as custom post and core restorations in clinical applications. AIM OF THE STUDY: This study aimed to evaluate the fracture resistance of three non-metallic esthetic post and core restorations and their modes of failure. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Thirty-nine single-rooted human maxillary central incisors were endodontically treated. A standardized post space preparation of 9mm length was performed to all teeth to receive custom-made post and core restorations. The prepared teeth were randomly allocated to receive a post and core restoration made of one of the following materials (n=13): glass fiber-reinforced composite (FRC), polyetheretherketone (PEEK) and polymer-infiltrated ceramic-network (PICN). An intraoral scanner was used to scan all teeth including the post spaces. Computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD-CAM) was used to fabricate post and core restorations. Post and core restorations were cemented using self-adhesive resin cement. All specimens were subjected to fracture resistance testing using a universal testing machine. Failure mode analysis was assessed using a stereomicroscope and SEM. The data was statistically analyzed using One-Way ANOVA test followed by multiple pairwise comparisons using Bonferroni adjusted significance level. RESULTS: Custom PEEK post and core restorations displayed the least fracture load values at 286.16 ± 67.09 N. In contrast, FRC exhibited the highest average fracture load at 452.60 ± 105.90 N, closely followed by PICN at 426.76 ± 77.99 N. In terms of failure modes, 46.2% of specimens with PICN were deemed non-restorable, while for PEEK and FRC, these percentages were 58.8% and 61.5%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Within the limitation of this study, both FRC and PICN demonstrated good performance regarding fracture resistance, surpassing that of PEEK.

Comparative evaluation of marginal adaptation and fatigue resistance of endodontically treated premolars restored with direct and indirect coronal restorations: an in vitro study.

BACKGROUND: An optimum restoration for reconstructing endodontically treated teeth should provide excellent marginal adaptation, high fracture resistance as well as maximum tooth structure conservation. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the marginal adaptation and fatigue resistance of different coronal restorations in endodontically treated premolars. METHODS: Thirty sound maxillary first premolars were endodontically treated and received MOD cavities. Teeth were randomly allocated into three groups (n = 10) according to the type of coronal restoration: Group R: polyethylene fibers (ribbond), fibers-reinforced composite (everX posterior) and final layer of nano-hybrid composite. Group O: indirect lithium disilicate overlay and Group C: fiber-post, resin composite restoration, and lithium disilicate crown. Marginal gap assessment was performed before and after thermocycling (5000 cycles) using stereomicroscope. Samples were subjected to stepwise-stress loading starting at 200 N, and increased by 100 N in each step until failure occurred. Statistical analysis was done by One-way ANOVA followed Tukey`s Post Hoc test for multiple comparison. Paired t test was used to compare the marginal adaptation before and after thermocycling. Survival probability was evaluated by Life table survival analysis. Failure mode analysis was performed with Chi-square test. RESULTS: Marginal gap was significantly the lowest in group R (37.49 ± 5.05) and (42.68 ± 2.38), while being the highest in group C (59.78 ± 5.67) and (71.52 ± 5.18) in before and after thermocycling respectively (P < 0.0001). Fatigue resistance was the highest for group O (1310.8 ± 196.7), and the lowest for group R (905.4 ± 170.51) with a significant difference between groups (P < 0.0001). Crown group had the highest percentage (80%) of catastrophic failure, while, overlay group exhibited the lowest (20%). CONCLUSIONS: Direct restoration without cuspal coverage using ribbon fibers with short FRC provided better marginal adaptation than indirect overlays and crowns, but fatigue resistance wasn't significantly improved. Adhesive ceramic overlays showed the best fatigue performance and the least catastrophic failure rate compared to both direct fiber-reinforced composite and indirect ceramic full coverage restorations. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Indirect adhesive overlays are a suitable, more conservative restorative option for endodontically treated teeth than full coverage restorations, especially when tooth structure is severely compromised.

Survival rate and treatment success of glass fiber posts cemented with two adhesive cementation strategies after up to 106 months: a randomized clinical trial.

OBJECTIVES: The objective of this study is to evaluate the longevity of two fiber post cementation strategies in a prospective, multicenter, non-inferiority, double-blind randomized controlled trial. METHODS: A total of 152 teeth, with adequate endodontic treatment and loss of coronal structure and bilateral simultaneous posterior occlusal contacts, were randomly allocated to receive glass fiber posts cemented with a conventional cementation strategy (CRC group: adhesive system + resin cement) (Adper Single Bond + RelyX ARC; 3 M-ESPE) or a self-adhesive cementation strategy (SRC group: self-adhesive resin cement; RelyX U100/U200; 3 M-ESPE). The patients were recalled annually for clinical and radiographical evaluation with a 93% recall rate (142 teeth, with 74 at CR groups and 68 at SRC group). The primary outcome was survival rate, considering the fiber post debonding (loss of retention). The secondary outcome included the success rate of the prosthetic treatment with crown debonding, post fracture, and tooth loss (not related to post failure). Both outcomes were evaluated annually. The Kaplan-Meier method and Cox regression with 95% confidence interval were used for the statistical analysis. RESULTS: For the primary outcome (failures directly related to fiber posts cementation strategy), there were 4 fiber post debondings (2 per group), 8 root fractures (3 for SRC group and 5 for CRC group), and one mixed failure (debonding combined with root fracture for CRC), with both strategies presenting similar survival rates (p = 0.331), with 88.9% for the CRC group and 90.9% for the SRC group. For the secondary outcome (failures not related to fiber post cementation strategies), there were 8 crown debondings, 3 post fractures, and 3 tooth losses, with no statistically difference between groups (p = 0.701), with 77% for SRC and 82% for CRC. CONCLUSION: Fiber post cementation strategies with conventional or self-adhesive resin cement presents similar tooth survival and success rates. TRIAL REGISTRATION: NCT01461239 CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Both adhesive cementation strategies led to high survival and success rates and are indicated for fiber post cementation, even after a long follow-up period (up to 106 months).

The effect of adhesive resin cement, obturation material and root dentin location on the retention of glass fiber-reinforced composite resin posts.

PURPOSE: To assess the effects of adhesive resin cement, obturation material and dentin location on the retention of glass fiber-reinforced resin composite (FRRC) posts. METHODS: 60 root canals in single rooted teeth were obturated with three different protocols (n= 20), including no obturation material (Control), GuttaFlow and Gutta-percha. Spaces were prepared for glass (FRCR) posts. Subgroups of the roots (n=10) were allocated for receiving posts luted with RelyX Unicem or Calibra resin cements. The specimens were mounted in plastic molds using epoxy resin. They were sectioned transversely to obtain three 1 mm-thick coronal, middle and apical slabs. Post retention was measured using a universal testing machine. The push-out test was performed at a crosshead speed of 0.5 mm/minute until post dislodgement occurred. Dislodged posts were examined microscopically to evaluate the mode of failure. Data were analyzed using univariate tests to reveal the effects of dependent variables and their interactions on post retention. Tukey test was used to determine significant differences for post retention in obturation material and dentin location groups. P-values ≤ 0.05 were considered significant. RESULTS: The adhesive resin cement, obturation material, dentin location and cement obturation materials interaction affected post retention. The mean bond strength was higher for posts cemented with RelyX Unicem than for those cemented with Calibra resin cements. Post retention in coronal locations was significantly superior to middle or apical locations. The failure mode was primarily mixed. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: When using RelyX Unicem cement for luting glass fiber-reinforced root canal posts, complete removal of all obturation materials from the post space significantly improves the retention. Although Calibra cement is less technique sensitive than RelyX Unicem resin cement, it produces notably lower retention of fiber-reinforced glass root canal posts.

Effect of antioxidants after post-space irrigation on the adhesive interface of glass fiber post cementation.

OBJECTIVE: This study evaluated the effects of antioxidants, 10% sodium ascorbate (SA) or 20% alpha-tocopherol (AT), after post-space irrigation with 2.5% sodium hypochlorite +17% EDTA (SH) or 1% peracetic acid (PA) on the adhesive interface after glass fiber post cementation. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Sixty bovine roots were endodontically treated. After preparation, the post-space was irrigated with SH or PA followed or not by the use of antioxidants (SA or AT) (n = 10). Push-out bond strength test, failure mode, and dentin penetrability analysis using confocal laser microscope were performed in the cervical, middle, and apical thirds. Data from bond strength and dentinal penetrability were evaluated by one-way ANOVA and Tukey post hoc test (p < 0.05). RESULTS: SH showed the lowest bond strength regardless of the third (p < 0.05). In apical third, mixed failure was the most incident in all groups. Only in the cervical third of the post-space, SH-AT provided the greatest tag extension of the cementation system into dentin (p < 0.05). However, in the middle and apical thirds, SH-AT, SH-SA, and PA-SA provided the largest tag extensions (p < 0.05), but similar to each other (p > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The use of antioxidants only favored bond strength when SH was used and dentin penetrability of the adhesive and conventional resin cementation, regardless of the solution used to irrigate the post-space. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: The use of antioxidants (10% sodium ascorbate and 20% alpha-tocopherol) after post-space irrigation with sodium hypochlorite appears to increase the bond strength favoring the glass fiber post-cementation.

Influence of alveolar bone height on the biomechanical behavior of roots restored with custom-made posts-and-cores.

OBJETIVE: This study evaluated the influence of alveolar bone height and post type on compressive force resistance, fracture pattern, and stress distribution in endodontically treated teeth. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Bovine roots were endodontically treated and divided into eight groups (n = 10) according to alveolar bone height (normal alveolar bone and alveolar bone loss - 2 and 5 mm from the margin of the crown, respectively) and post type (prefabricated glass fiber post, anatomic glass fiber post, customized milled glass fiber post-and-core and customized milled polyetheretherketone (PEEK) post-and-core). Mechanical fatigue was simulated (300.000 cycles/50 N/1.2 Hz). Compression force resistance (N) was analyzed by two-way ANOVA and Tukey test (α = 0.05). Fracture patterns were described as percentages. Stress distribution was analyzed by finite element analysis. RESULTS: Significant diferences were found for alveolar bone height (P < 0.0001): normal alveolar bone groups showed higher mean values of compression force resistance compared to alveolar bone loss groups, while no significant differences were found for post type (P = 0.4551), and there was no double interaction between them (P = 0.5837). Reparable fractures were more predominant in normal alveolar bone groups, especially in the milled glass fiber and PEEK post-and-core groups. Stress distribution was similar in groups with prefabricated glass fiber posts and milled PEEK posts-and-cores, and the alveolar bone loss condition significantly increased stress concentration and strain values, mainly on apical dentin. CONCLUSIONS: Alveolar bone loss due to physiological aging and/or periodontal disease may lead to increased risk of restored tooth failure, although milled glass fiber and PEEK posts-and-cores provide more reparable fractures. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Custom-made glass fiber and PEEK post-and-cores are interesting options, since they enable clinicians to work with a single-body post-and-core system that avoid several materials interfaces and fits well in the root canal provided promising results to improve the failure behavior of restored roots, as they offer more reparable fractures even in situations of alveolar bone loss.

Biomechanical behavior of weakened roots restored with custom-made post-and-cores of glass fiber and polyetheretherketone.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the influence of post type and mechanical aging on compression force resistance, fracture pattern, and stress distribution in weakened roots. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Bovine roots were endodontically treated and widened-and randomly divided into 8 groups (n = 10) according to post type (prefabricated glass fiber post and customized anatomic glass fiber post, milled glass fiber post-and-core, and milled polyetheretherketone post-and-core) and mechanical aging (without and with mechanical aging). Three hundred thousand cycles of mechanical fatigue were performed and compression force resistance (N) was analyzed by two-way ANOVA and Tukey test (α = 0.05). Fracture patterns were reported and stress distribution was analyzed by finite elements analysis. RESULTS: There was a significant effect of post type (p = 0.032) and mechanical aging (p = 0.009), but no double interaction (p = 0.879). Higher values were recorded in the milled glass fiber and polyetheretherketone post-and-core groups compared to the prefabricated glass fiber post groups, and no significant difference was found among anatomic glass fiber post groups and other groups. Reparable fractures were predominant in the milled glass fiber and polyetheretherketone post-and-core groups. Prefabricated glass fiber posts and milled polyetheretherketone post-and-cores showed similar stress distribution. CONCLUSIONS: Post type and mechanical aging influence the compression force resistance and fracture pattern of weakened roots. Milled glass fiber and polyetheretherketone post-and-cores exhibited higher compression force resistance and more reparable fractures compared to prefabricated glass fiber posts. Prefabricated glass fiber posts and milled polyetheretherketone post-and-cores showed similar stress distribution.

Influence of different intraradicular chemical pretreatments on the bond strength of adhesive interface between dentine and fiber post cements: A systematic review and network meta-analysis.

Systematic review and network meta-analyses were performed to answer the question: Do intraradicular chemical pretreatments affect the bond strength of the adhesive interface between dentine and fiber post cements? A literature search was performed in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, LILACS, BBO, and Cochrane Library in October 2018 (updated September 2021). In vitro studies that compared the bond strength assessed by push-out tests following at least two dentine chemical treatments prior to fiber post cementation were included. Risk of bias was evaluated. A random-effects Bayesian-mixed treatment comparison model was used to compare push-out bond strength of different chemical pretreatments. SUCRA (surface area under the cumulative ranking) analysis was performed to rank the pretreatments. After removing duplicates and screening titles and abstracts, 61 studies remained. SUCRA analysis showed that the best bond strength values for self-etch, etch-and-rinse, and self-adhesive cements were ethyl acetate (SUCRA: 99.8%), low concentration NaOCl (SUCRA: 83.4%), and grape seed extract (SUCRA: 97.6%), respectively. According to the SUCRA rankings, ethanol was in a good position for all adhesive strategies (SUCRA: 78.6%). The use of chemical pretreatments in intraradicular dentine of endodontically treated teeth depends on the adhesive and cementation strategy. The pretreatment generally associated with the highest bond strength was ethanol.

Early failures when using three different adhesively retained core build-up materials-a randomized controlled trial.

OBJECTIVES: To compare the failure rates for three different adhesively retained core build-up composites up to the incorporation of a permanent fixed dental prosthesis (FDP), and to identify potential failure risk factors. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A randomized controlled trial of 300 participants in need of a core build-up to restore a vital abutment tooth before prosthetic treatment was conducted. Participants were assigned by stratified block randomization to one of three study groups: Rebilda DC (RDC), Clearfil DC Core (CDC), or Multicore Flow (MF). Test teeth were prepared by use of the respective manufacturer's adhesive system. The total-etch technique was used for RDC and MF, and the self-etch technique for CDC. Participants were treated by dentists (n = 150) or dental students (n = 150). Failure rates of core build-ups before incorporation of FDPs were investigated using univariate and multiple logistic regression. RESULTS: The overall failure rate was 8% (n = 23). Rate differences between the three investigated groups did not reach statistical significance (p > 0.05). The mean time between placement of core build-ups and placement of fixed dental prostheses was 12.2 (SD: 14.2) weeks. Conversely, larger cavities (> 3 surfaces) and treatment by dental students were independently associated with an increased failure risk (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The main risk factors for early failure seem to be the size of the core build-up and clinical experience of the operator, whereas failure rates of core build-up materials combined with a self-etch approach seem to be similar to the rates of materials combined with the total-etch technique. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: This research article should give clinicians an impression of the short-term performance of different adhesively retained core build-ups using different adhesive techniques/materials. Moreover, predominant influencing factors for the success or failure should be pictured.

How the translucency of direct anatomic fiber posts affects the bond strength and microhardness of a self-adhesive luting agent in flared roots.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the influence of the composite resin translucency used in direct anatomic fiber posts on the bond strength (BS) and microhardness (VHN) of a luting agent into flared roots. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The root canals of 70 single-rooted premolars were endodontically treated and prepared to simulate an oversized root canal. Prior to post cementation, composite resins with varying translucency (high translucent, HT; medium translucent, MT; high opacity, HO) were placed around the fiber posts to create anatomic fiber posts. The attenuation profile (%) of light passing either through the post or through the anatomic posts (n = 8) was obtained prior to the cementing procedures. A positive control group (PC) in which a prefabricated fiber post (PFP) with the diameter compatible with the root canal was cemented and a poorly adapted fiber post (negative control group, NC) were also evaluated. For both tests, the data were subjected to 2-way ANOVA and Bonferroni tests (α = 0.05). RESULTS: A more severe light attenuation through the post at the cervical (P < .001) and medium (P < 0.001) thirds was noted when less translucent composite resin surrounded the anatomic post. HO groups showed lower BS (P = .009) and VHN (P < .001) values than the other groups, regardless of root third. No significant difference in BS values was noted between PC and HT groups. CONCLUSION: The use of a more translucent composite resin in anatomic fiber posts increased the microhardness and bond strength of a dual polymerization self-adhesive RLA compared to the use of MT and HO composite. A well-adapted PFP showed the highest adhesive and mechanical behavior. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Clinicians should choose more translucent composite resins to create direct anatomic fiber posts to be cemented in flared root canals. That choice may allow improved mechanical properties of self-adhesive RLA and higher bond strength to the root canal as a consequence.

Fracture resistance and stress distribution of weakened teeth reinforced with a bundled glass fiber-reinforced resin post.

OBJECTIVES: To make an in vitro assessment of fracture resistance of weakened and non-weakened teeth receiving intraradicular reinforcement using Rebilda bundled glass fiber-reinforced composite posts (GT), Rebilda conventional glass fiber posts (RP), or both systems combined (GT + RP). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Eighty sound bovine incisors were prepared and divided randomly into eight groups as follows: (a) nWnR: without simulating weakness, and without intraradicular reinforcement; (b) WnR: simulating weakness, but without intraradicular reinforcement; (c) nWGT: without simulating weakness, but with GT; (d) WGT: simulating weakness, and with GT; (e) nWRP: without simulating weakness, but with RP; (f) WRP: simulating weakness, and with RP; (g) nWGTRP: without simulating weakness, but with GT + RP; (h) WGTRP: simulating weakness, and with GT + RP. The specimens were subjected to the load-to-fracture test using the DL-2000MF universal testing machine. The finite element method assessed the mechanical behavior and stress distribution in endodontically treated teeth. RESULTS: The groups nWGTRP and WGTRP presented the best results in the load-to-fracture test, with the former being better than the latter, but with no statistically significant difference (P > 0.05). However, there was a significant difference between these and the other groups (P < 0.05), except for nWRP. Stress distribution inside the canal wall was different among the groups, with promising mechanical behavior for nWGTRP and nWRP. CONCLUSIONS: The Rebilda conventional fiber post (RP), combined with the Rebilda bundled glass fiber-reinforced composite post (GT) improves the resistance and stress distribution of immature teeth. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Longitudinal fracture is less frequent in teeth restored with GT and RP posts.

Glass fiber posts relining: can composite opacity influence retention to root canal dentin?

This study aimed at evaluating the influence of glass-fiber post (GFP) relining with composites of different opacities on resin cement layer thickness (CLT), bond strength (BS) to root dentin, and resin cement degree of conversion (DC%). Standardized roots of 52 bovine incisors had their canals prepared and were distributed into 4 groups (n = 10 for CLT and BS; n = 3 for DC%) according to the post used: WP3 (Control)-Whitepost DC3; groups DE, EN and TR-Whitepost DC0.5 relined, respectively, with dentin, enamel, and translucent shade composites. After cementation, specimens were sectioned into six 1.0 mm-thick discs that were submitted to push-out BS test. CLT and failure pattern were evaluated using a stereomicroscope and DC% by micro-Raman spectroscopy. Data were analyzed by two-way ANOVA and Tukey test (α = 0.05). The control group showed greater CLT than all relined groups (p < 0.05), which did not differ from each other (p > 0.05). Groups relined with low opacity composites (TR; EN) showed the highest BS and DC% means (p < 0.05). BS was not different among root thirds (p > 0.05), while DC% decreased from cervical to apical third (p < 0.05). Adhesive failures between cement and dentin were predominant, except for group DE with frequent mixed failures. It could be concluded that composite opacity did not influence CLT, which was thinner when GFP were relined and that relining GFP with lower opacity composites led to higher BS and DC%.

Effect of ultrasonic activation of the adhesive system on dentin tubule penetration and the pushout bond strength of fiber posts.

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM: Whether ultrasonic activation of the adhesive system improves dentin tubule penetration and the bond strength of fiber posts to root dentin is unclear. PURPOSE: The purpose of this in vitro study was to evaluate the effect of ultrasonic activation of 2 adhesive systems (etch-and-rinse and self-etch) and 1 glass ionomer cement on the dentin tubule penetration and pushout bond strength of fiber posts to root dentin. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Sixty maxillary central incisors were endodontically treated and divided into 6 groups (n=10) as per the post cementation strategy: etch-and-rinse, etch-and-rinse and ultrasonic, self-etch, self-etch and ultrasonic, glass ionomer cement, and glass ionomer cement and ultrasonic. The primers, the adhesives, and the glass ionomer cement were activated for 20 seconds each, and the fiber posts were cemented with a resin cement. Dentin tubule penetration was evaluated by confocal laser scanning microscopy and the pushout bond strength measured at 3 post locations: cervical, middle, and apical. The failure patterns were also described after pushout testing. RESULTS: Self-etch and ultrasonic showed higher dentin tubule penetration than the other cementation strategies (P<.05) and improved the bond strength values (P<.05), which were higher than etch-and-rinse and ultrasonic and glass ionomer cement and ultrasonic (P<.05). Adhesive failures at the cement and dentin interface were predominant in the etch-and-rinse, self-etch, and self-etch and ultrasonic groups. CONCLUSIONS: Ultrasonic activation improved the dentin tubule penetration of a self-etch adhesive system. The bond strength of fiber posts cemented with a self-etch adhesive system and a resin cement was improved after ultrasonic activation.

Comparative evaluation of the force required to fracture coronal segments reattached using different methods.

BACKGROUND/AIM: Anterior teeth are prone to traumatic injuries. Their management is necessary in order to maintain the pulp and esthetics. Various methods have been reported for fragment reattachment of fractured teeth but there is no consensus on which is the best technique. The aim of this study was to compare the force required to fracture reattached fragments using polyethylene fibers in vertical grooves on the external surface of teeth, fiber-reinforced composite post and circumferential chamfer. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Forty-eight extracted maxillary central incisors were sectioned using a disk and randomly divided into 4 groups (n = 12): Group 1: control group, Group 2: reattachment followed by placement of two external vertical grooves on the labial surface and restored with polyethylene fibers and hybrid composite, Group 3: reattachment followed by two external vertical grooves and filled with fiber posts and composite, and Group 4: reattachment followed by circumferential chamfer at the fracture line and restored with composite. The forces required to fracture the reattached fragments were measured using a Universal testing machine. Data were analyzed using the Kruskal-Wallis test. Pairwise multiple comparison procedure was done using the Student-Newman-Keuls Method. RESULTS: The highest values for force required to fracture were observed in the fiber post group and the lowest in the Ribbond group (p < .05). The fiber post group had significantly different results compared to the Ribbond and Chamfer preparation groups (p < .05). However, the difference of rank between the fiber post and control groups was not significantly different (p > .05). CONCLUSION: The force required to fracture the fiber post group was closest to that of intact teeth followed by the chamfer and Ribbond groups, respectively.

Restoration of teeth with customized CAD/CAM glass fiber posts: report of 2 cases.

This article presents 2 cases in which computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) was used to fabricate glass fiber posts to restore an anterior tooth and a posterior tooth with severe coronal destruction. In the past decade, CAD/CAM technology has improved, allowing high-precision milling of customized glass fiber posts. This can enhance the biomechanical behavior of the restoration, as the post and core are milled in a single unit, decreasing the risk of failure near the core junction or in the body of the core. The customized post also provides better adaptation and requires a thinner layer of cement, thus minimizing voids. In case 1, the patient had a severely damaged maxillary right canine with a ferrule from a previous restoration. In case 2, the patient presented with a mandibular left first molar exhibiting severe coronal destruction. In both cases, impressions of the root canal were scanned with a bench scanner, and the posts were fabricated using a glass fiber material designed for CAD/CAM technology. A self-adhesive resin cement was used to cement the posts in the root canals, and a metal-free crown (case 1) and overlay (case 2) were fabricated and placed. Satisfactory retention and esthetics were achieved, and both patients was pleased by the final results. These cases demonstrate the viability of CAD/CAM to restore endodontically treated teeth, and this technology can be an option for dentists interested in using a digital workflow. The longevity of the posts produced via this technique needs to be evaluated in clinical trials.

Evaluation of the Efficacy of Two Fibre-Reinforced Post Removal Techniques.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this in-vitro study was to compare the amount of material (post and luting agent) and root dentine removed using two methods for removal of endodontic posts. METHODS: Human premolar teeth (n=20) were sectioned at the CEJ and fibre reinforced posts were cemented at a length of 10mm following root canal therapy. Teeth were randomly assigned to two study groups. The methods of removal compared were: the use of RTD re-access kit (Composipost, RTD, France, St Egreve) in a conventional hand-piece driven by an electric motor (Group A); or a long tapered diamond bur (FG Diamond grit bur, Dentsply Ltd, UK) in an air-driven high speed turbine (Group B). Using micro- CT the volume of material and root dentine removed for each sample was calculated. RESULTS: Both the volume of material removed and the volume of root dentine removed were significantly greater when using diamond burs. (p⟨0.001). The volume of dentine removed using the diamond bur method (mean 22.64mm³) was greater than the volume removed using the reaccess kit (mean 11.71mm³). SIGNIFICANCE: Use of a diamond bur to remove fibre reinforced endodontic post removal poses higher risk for root perforation compared to the reaccess kit.

Root canal pre-treatment and adhesive system affect bond strength durability of fiber posts ex vivo.

OBJECTIVES: To investigate the effect of different pre-treatments on the long-term bond strength of fiberglass posts luted either with dual-curing self-etch adhesives and core build-up composites or with a self-adhesive resin (SAR) cement. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In total, 180 human root-filled teeth received post-space preparations and three different dentin pre-treatments (PTs): PT1, ethanol (99%); PT2, ethanol-tertiary-butanol-water-solution (AH Plus Cleaner, Dentsply Sirona; York, USA); and PT3, distilled water (control). Five luting systems were used: FU, Futurabond U (Voco; Cuxhaven, Germany); CL, Clearfil DC Bond (Kuraray Noritake; Okayama, Japan); GR, Gradia Core SE Bond (GC Europe NV; Leuven, Belgium); LU, LuxaBond Universal (DMG; Hamburg, Germany); and RX, RelyX Unicem 2 (3M; Minnesota, USA). Roots were cut into six slices (1 mm thick). From each root canal region, three slices were submitted to immediate and three to post-storage push-out testing. The latter were subjected to thermocycling (5-55°C, 6.000 cycles) and stored for six months in saline solution (0.9%, 37°C). Data were analysed using repeated measures ANOVA and chi-square tests (MV±SD). RESULTS: Bond strength was significantly affected by material (p<0.0005), pre-treatment (p=0.016), and storage (p<0.0005; repeated-measures ANOVA). LU (18.8±8.1MPa) revealed significantly higher bond strength than RX (16.08±6.4MPa), GR (15.1±4.6MPa), CL (13.95±5.2MPa), and FU (13.7±6.3MPa). PT1 (16.5±6.9MPa) revealed significantly higher bond strength than PT3 (14.5±5.7MPa). CONCLUSIONS: A universal adhesive in self-etch mode combined with a core build-up material revealed higher bond strength than a SAR cement, both interacted positively with Ethanol pre-treatment. CLINICAL RELEVANCE STATEMENT: Ethanol (99%) rinsing can be recommended as part of post and core pre-treatment for the investigated luting systems.