Effect of Different Surface Treatments of Glass Fiber Posts on their Surface Roughness and Flexure Properties

AIM: This study aimed to assess the effect of different surface treatments on the surface roughness and flexure properties of glass fiber posts “GFPs.” MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 40 GFPs were divided into four groups (n = 10): GC – no surface treatment (control), GSB – sandblasted, GHF – hydrofluoric acid etched, and GL – Er: YAG laser irradiated. Surface roughness was detected using surface profilometer and the 3-points bending flexural test measured flexural strength and elastic modulus. RESULTS: GSB showed the highest mean roughness followed by GHF, then GL, while GC had lowest roughness mean value. The 3 points bending test results were calculated and recorded, GSB exhibited the highest flexure stress (MPa) compared to GHF and GL. Modulus of elasticity (GPa) showed significant differences between the tested groups, GSB showed the highest modulus of elasticity compared to GHF and GL, while GC showed insignificant differences with all tested groups. CONCLUSION: Different surface treatments postulated in this study showed alternations of GFPs surfaces without jeopardizing the mechanical properties of GFPs.