Compressive and flexural behaviour of fibre reinforced endodontic posts

A laboratory study comparing the static navigation technique using a bur with a conventional freehand technique using ultrasonic tips for the removal of fibre posts

AIM

There are currently no high-quality studies comparing the static navigation technique with conventional methods of fibre post removal. The aim of this ex vivo study was to compare the effectiveness of fibre post removal between a static navigation technique and a conventional freehand technique using ultrasonics by experienced and inexperienced operators.

METHODOLOGY

Forty-eight extracted single-rooted human premolars were root-filled. A fibre post was cemented in all 48 teeth, which were then divided randomly into the following groups: static navigation group using burs; static navigation-ultrasonic group; and non-guided group using ultrasonic tips. The following parameters were evaluated for both experienced operators and inexperienced operators: reaching the gutta-percha root filling successfully, the time required to remove the entire post, the occurrence of lateral root perforations, and the amount of root dentine removed. The Kolmogorov-Smirnov test was used to examine the normality of the data; the anova test was used to compare the significant differences among groups; and Tukey tests were used for all two-by-two comparisons. The significance level was set at 0.05.

RESULTS

In the static navigation group, the gutta-percha was reached significantly more frequently than in the non-guided group (p < .05). The static navigation approach required significantly less time than the non-guided approach to reach the gutta-percha (p < .05). The total removal of posts was significantly different between groups (p < .05), but there was no significant difference between experienced and inexperienced operators in the static navigation group (p > .05). More perforations were associated with the non-guided group than with the other two groups. The total mean loss of dentine in the non-guided group in all directions was 0.39 (±0.17) mm, with 0.25 (±0.09) mm for experienced, and 0.42 (±0.16) mm for inexperienced operators.

CONCLUSION

When compared to a conventional ultrasonic technique for the removal of fibre posts, the static navigation method using burs resulted in less dentine removal, more rapid access to the gutta-percha root filling, less overall time to remove the posts, and fewer complications. When using static navigation, there was no difference in performance between experienced and inexperienced operators.

Evaluation of microhardness of short fiber-reinforced composites inside the root canal after different light curing methods - An in vitro study

OBJECTIVES

Short fiber-reinforced composite (SFRC) materials make it possible to reinforce root canal treated teeth with individualized, directly layered intraradicular posts (the Bioblock technique). The question arises, however, as to whether the photopolymerization of the material is sufficient deep within the root canal space and if it can be improved through different light-conducting options. Our study aimed to investigate the hardness of intraradicular SFRC material applied using the Bioblock technique and cured with various illumination methods, as measured through nanoindentation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

For this investigation, thirty plastic artificial teeth that had undergone root canal treatment were selected. These teeth were randomly divided into six study groups (Group 1-6; each group consisting of 5 teeth). The restoration procedures involved the use of SFRC or conventional composite materials, placed 6 mm apically from the root canal orifice. In Group 1 and 2, a conventional composite was used, whereas in Group 3-6, SFRC was employed for interradicular reinforcement (with a layered technique in Group 3 and 4 and a bulk-fill technique in Group 5 and 6). A modified light source was utilized for photopolymerization in Group 2, 4, and 6, whereas in Group 3 and 5, the polymerization light was directed through a prefabricated glass fiber posts. The control group (Group 1) utilized conventional composite material with a standard light-curing method. Following embedding and sectioning, the hardness of the composite materials was measured at 2 mm intervals within the root canal (1st, 2nd, 3rd measurements, in the coronal to apical direction).

RESULTS

During the 1st measurement, light curing conducted through the glass fiber posts (Group 3 and 5) led to markedly higher hardness levels compared to the groups restored with conventional composite (control group with p = 0.002, p = 0.001, and Group 2 with p = 0.043, p = 0.034, respectively). In the 2nd measurement, only Group 5 demonstrated significantly greater hardness in comparison to the control group (p = 0.003) and Group 2 (p = 0.015). However, in the 3rd measurement, no statistically significant differences were observed among the groups.

CONCLUSION

light curing through the glass fiber post provides outstanding hardness for the SFRC material in the apical layer in the root canal.

Fatigue performance of endodontically treated molars reinforced with different fiber systems

OBJECTIVE

The aim was to investigate the fatigue performance of root canal-treated (RCT) molars restored with different direct restorations utilizing discontinuous and continuous fiber-reinforced composite (FRC) systems. The impact of direct cuspal coverage was also evaluated.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

One hundred and twenty intact third molars extracted for periodontal or orthodontic reasons were randomly divided into six groups (n=20). Standardized MOD, regular cavities for direct restorations were prepared in all specimens, and subsequently, root canal treatment and root canal obturation was carried out. After the endodontic treatment, the cavities were restored with different fiber-reinforced direct restorations as follows: SFC group (control), discontinuous short fiber-reinforced composite (SFC) without cuspal coverage (CC); SFC+CC group, SFC with cuspal coverage; PFRC group, transcoronal fixation with continuous polyethylene fibers without CC; PFRC+CC group, transcoronal fixation with continuous polyethylene fibers with CC; GFRC group, continuous glass FRC post without CC; and GFRC+CC, continuous glass FRC post with CC. All specimens underwent a fatigue survival test in a cyclic loading machine until fracture occurred or 40,000 cycles were completed. The Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was conducted, followed by pairwise log-rank post hoc comparisons between the individual groups (Mantel-Cox).

RESULTS

The PFRC+CC group was characterized by significantly higher survival compared to all the groups (p < 0.05), except for the control group (p = 0.317). In contrast, the GFRC group showed significantly lower survival compared to all the groups (p < 0.05), except for the SFC+CC group (p = 0.118). The control group (SFC) showed statistically higher survival than the SFRC+CC group (p < 0.05) and GFRC group (p < 0.05), but it did not differ significantly from the rest of the groups in terms of survival.

CONCLUSIONS

Direct restorations utilizing continuous FRC systems (in the form of polyethylene fibers or FRC post) to restore RCT molar MOD cavities performed better in terms of fatigue resistance when CC was performed compared to the same FRC restorations without CC. On the contrary, teeth restored with SFC restorations performed better without CC compared to the ones where SFC was covered.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

In the case of fiber-reinforced direct restorations for MOD cavities in RCT molars, direct CC is recommended when utilizing long continuous fibers for reinforcement, however, should be avoided when only SFC is used for their reinforcement.

Fatigue performance of endodontically treated premolars restored with direct and indirect cuspal coverage restorations utilizing fiber-reinforced cores

Objectives

The aim of this in vitro study was to investigate the fatigue survival and fracture behavior of endodontically treated (ET) premolars restored with different types of post-core and cuspal coverage restorations.

Materials and methods

MOD cavities were prepared on 108 extracted maxillary premolars. During the endodontic treatment, all teeth were instrumented with rotary files (ProTaper Universal) to the same apical enlargement (F2) and were obturated with a matched single cone obturation. After the endodontic procedure, the cavities were restored with different post-core and overlay restorations (n = 12/group). Three groups (A1–A3) were restored with either conventional composite core (PFC; control) or flowable short-fiber-reinforced composite (SFRC) core with/without custom-made fiber posts and without overlays. Six groups had similar post-core foundations as described above but with either direct PFC (B1–B3) or indirect CAD/CAM (C1–C3) overlays. Fatigue survival was tested for all restorations using a cyclic loading machine until fracture occurred or 50,000 cycles were completed. Kaplan-Meyer survival analysis was conducted, followed by pairwise post hoc comparisons.

Results

None of the restored teeth survived all 50,000. Application of flowable SFRC as luting-core material with fiber post and CAD/CAD overlays (Group C3) showed superior performance regarding fatigue survival (p < 0.05) to all the other groups. Flowable SFRC with fiber post and direct overlay (Group B3) showed superior survival compared to all other direct techniques (p < 0.05), except for the same post-core foundation but without cuspal coverage (Group A3).

Conclusions

Custom-made fiber post and SFRC as post luting core material with or without cuspal coverage performed well in terms of fatigue resistance and survival when used for the restoration of ET premolars.

Clinical relevance

The fatigue survival of direct and indirect cuspal coverage restorations in ET MOD premolars is highly dependent on whether the core build-up is fiber-reinforced or not. The combination of short and long fibers in the form of individualized post-cores seems to offer a favorable solution in this situation.

State of the Art Contemporary Prefabricated Fiber-Reinforced Posts

Background:

There is an increased interest in investigating and use of prefabricated fiber-reinforced posts by scientists and clinicians in the restoration of endodontically treated teeth.

Objective:

The objective of this narrative review was to summarize the composition of contemporary prefabricated fiber-reinforced posts and elucidate its effect on the different properties of these posts.

Methods:

PubMed/Medline, Scopus, and Google Scholar were searched from January 1990 to December 2019 for English Language articles describing the composition and properties of prefabricated fiber-reinforced posts. First, the search strategy was established for Medline / PubMed using the following terms ((Fiber post[All Fields] OR (fiber reinforced post[All Fields] AND composition[All Fields] AND (“matrix”[MeSH Terms] OR (“fiber”[All Fields] AND “properties”[All Fields] AND “epoxy”[All Fields]) OR “dimethacrylate”[All Fields]) AND NOT (CAD CAM[All Fields])). The search strategy was then adapted for Scopus and Google Scholar databases to identify eligible studies.

Results:

The current state of the art of prefabricated fiber-reinforced posts revealed a myriad of products with different formulations which are reflected on the mechanical and handling characteristics of the different posts available in the market. More recent research and development efforts attempted to address issues related to the improved transmission of polymerization light through the post to the most apical end of the restoration inside the root canal. Others focused on the development of new matrix materials for fiber-reinforced posts.

Conclusion:

A review of the literature revealed that currently available prefabricated fiber-reinforced posts consist of a heterogeneous group of materials which can have a significant effect on the behavior of posts. Understanding different formulations will help clinicians in scrutinizing the vast literature available on prefabricated fiber-reinforced posts. This, in turn, will help them make an informed decision when selecting materials for the restoration of endodontically treated teeth.

Effect of different laser types on bonding strength of CAD/CAM-customized zirconia post to root canal dentin: an experimental study

In clinical dentistry, the strength of bonding zirconia posts to root canal dentinal walls currently needs enhancement, and laser application can be an important contribution owing to its features that accommodate adjustable modifications on dental materials. Herein, the effect of different laser treatments applied to dentin surfaces on the strength of bonding zirconia posts to root canal dentinal walls is evaluated by using the pull-out bond strength test in a laboratory setting. A total of 40 single-rooted permanent mandibular premolar teeth that were freshly extracted were used here. The root canal preparation steps were performed using the crown-down technique. Custom-made zirconia posts were produced using CAD/CAM technology. Prior to the application of resin cement, the internal surfaces of the root canals were irradiated using Nd:YAG, Er:YAG, and KTP lasers. Pull-out tests were performed on each specimen by using a universal testing machine. One-way analysis of variance and Tukey post hoc tests were used to compare the pull-out bond strength data. The bond strengths of the laser-treated specimens were greater than those of the untreated controls (p < 0.05). While the value of the pull-out bond strength after Nd:YAG laser treatment was significantly higher than the values obtained after the applications of the Er:YAG and KTP lasers (p < 0.05), the pull-out bond strength after Er:YAG laser treatment was considerably greater than that after KTP laser treatment (p < 0.05). The bond strength between the root canal dentin and the CAD/CAM custom-made zirconia post was improved upon using all the laser modalities in current laboratory settings, among which, application of the Nd:YAG laser was the most successful.

Bonding of Core Build-Up Composites with Glass Fiber-Reinforced Posts

The purpose of this study was to investigate the bonding capacity of composite core build-up materials with prefabricated glass fiber-reinforced posts possessing different coronal morphologies. Five post types (Archimede Line (ARL), Fibrekleer (FBK), Glassix (GLX), Matrix Plus (MTP), and ParaPost White (PRW) and three core build-up materials (ClearfilPhoto Core (CPC), ClearfilDC Core (CDC), ClearfilNew Bond (CNB) of different curing modes (light-, self-, dual-cured respectively) were selected. The coronal part was embedded in the core build-up materials and the specimens were loaded under tensile force up to failure. The reliability (β) and characteristic life (σο, in Ν) of the debonding force were evaluated by Weibull statistics and the debonded specimens were subjected to failure mode analysis. The results showed that ARL, MPT posts were the most and GLX the least retentive, despite the core build-up material used. CPC provided the highest retention with four posts (FBK, GLX, MTP, and PRW), without statistically significant differences from CDC in two (FBK and MTP) and CNB in one (PRW). CPC and CDC were the most reliable core materials for two posts (ARL and PRW), with no statistically significant difference from CNB in three (FBK, GLX, and MTP). GLX and PRW demonstrated the highest (93%) incidence of post detachment from core, whereas FBK demonstrated the highest percentage of core material fracture, with most fractures occurring in CDC (57%). Post fractures were most prominent in MTP when combined with CNB. The presence of specific coronal retentive features did not essentially ensure increased strength with the core material, due to their delamination.

Evaluation of Mechanical Properties of a Hollow Endodontic Post by Three Point Test and SEM Analysis: A Pilot Study

The aim of this study was to investigate the mechanical properties of a fiber hollow endodontic post characterized by the presence of an empty central cylindrical channel extended along the whole length. This particular shape allows clinicians to use the post also as a cementation resin carrier. Ten hollow posts were divided in two groups: the control group (unfilled hollow posts) (Group 0) and hollow posts filled with dual resin cement (Group 1). The samples of both groups were subjected to mechanical and micromorphological analysis by performing a three-point test and SEM observations. In the three-point test, the Group 1 samples exhibited a fracture load of 57.09 ± 5.06 N, a flexural strength of 1323.53 ± 110.09 MPa, and a Young’s modulus of 42.87 ± 0.86 GPa. The samples of Group 2 exhibited a fracture load of 38.17 ± 1.7 N, a flexural strength of 908.87 ± 30.98 MPa, and a Young’s modulus of 40.33 ± 1.9 GPa. The difference between fracture load, flexural strength, and deflection between the two groups was statistically highly significant (p < 0.01). Further, the difference between the Young’s modulus of the two groups was statistically significant (p < 0.05). The values obtained are similar to those of other posts available on the market.

Fracture resistance and marginal gap formation of post-core restorations: influence of different fiber-reinforced composites

OBJECTIVES

The aim was to explore the fracture behavior and marginal gap within the root canal of endodontically treated (ET) premolars restored with different fiber-reinforced post-core composites (FRCs). Further aim was to evaluate the composite curing at different depths in the canal.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Eighty-seven intact upper premolars were collected and randomly divided into six groups. After endodontic procedure, standard MOD cavities were prepared and restored with their respective fiber-reinforced post-core materials: group 1: prefabricated unidirectional FRC-post + conventional composite core; group 2: prefabricated unidirectional FRC-post + short fiber composite (SFRC) core; group 3: individually formed unidirectional FRC-post + conventional composite core; group 4: randomly oriented SFRC directly layered as post and core; group 5: individually formed unidirectional FRC + randomly oriented SFRC as post and core. After restorations were completed, teeth (n = 3/group) were sectioned and then stained. Specimens were viewed under a stereo microscope and the percentage of microgaps within the root canal was calculated. Fracture load was measured using universal testing machine.

RESULTS

SFRC application in the root canal (groups 4 and 5) showed significantly higher fracture load (876.7 N) compared to the other tested groups (512-613 N) (p < 0.05). Post/core restorations made from prefabricated FRC-post (group 1) exhibited the highest number of microgaps (35.1%) at the examined interphase in the root canal.

CONCLUSIONS

The restoration of ET premolars with the use of SFRC as post-core material displayed promising performance in matter of microgap and load-bearing capacity.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Fracture resistance of ET premolar restored by bilayered composite restoration that includes both SFRC as post-core material and surface conventional resin seems to be beneficial.

The Effect of the Use of Different Types of Cement and Zirconium Post Systems on Endondontically Treated Teeth

BACKGROUND

Prefabricated zirconium upgrading systems were examined to satisfy aesthetic needs in endodontically treated teeth. Endodontically treated teeth, together with non-metallic posts and superstructure, are substructures that enable the production of prosthetic structures that will allow aesthetics, resulting from normal light transmission. To investigate and analyse the retention of zirconium post systems cemented with RelyX Unicem 2 Automix (RLX) cement with Pull-out test.

AIM

To examine the retention of zirconium post systems, cemented with Multi-Link Automix (MLA) cement and RelyX Unicem 2 Automix (RLX) cement with Pull-out test.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

In this study were used, 120 post systems of the company ZIRIX NORDIN - Switzerland, with different diameters d1 = 1.2, were used: d2 = 1.35, d3 = 1.5, and two types of resin cements: Multilink Automix-Ivoclar (MLA), and RelyX Unicem 2 Automix (RLX) - 3 M ESPE.

RESULTS

The analysis of the extraction force in newtons (N) zirconium post systems of Multilink Automix cement according to subgroups of three diameters is consequently 481.3 ± 1.9 vs 462.9 ± 4.5 vs 454.2 ± 2.2. The analysis of the extraction strength in the newtons (N) zirconium post systems of RelyX Unicem 2 Automix cement in the entire sample is 577.9 ± 6.1 N.

CONCLUSION

The largest diameter of the posts significantly increases the resistance of fractures compared to the smaller two diameters used in the experimental study.

Flexural strength of fiber reinforced posts after mechanical aging by simulated chewing forces

This study evaluated the effect of simulated chewing forces on the flexural strength of fiber reinforced posts (FRPs). Four different brands of FRPs were selected as main group for the study: RelyX Fiber Post (RX), IceLight (ICE), Unicore Posts (UC), FlouroPost (FP). Ten posts in each main group didn't receive any aging process and tested as baseline (BL), other ten posts were subjected to simulated chewing forces/mechanical aging (MA) as follows: Post spaces were prepared in acrylic with drill. Depth of preparation was adjusted to leave 4-mm coronal part of posts protruding from canals. Coronal parts were incrementally restored with resin-composite (Clearfil Majesty Posterior A2, Kuraray, Osaka, Japan). Prepared samples were subjected to chewing cycles in a chewing simulator (Chewing Simulator CS-4, Mechatronik, Germany). Flexural strengths of all groups were measured with three-point bending test. Data were analyzed by two-way ANOVA and Tukey's test (α = 0.05). After MA, flexural strengths of all posts were significantly decreased when compared with BL for all FRPs tested (p < 0.05). At BL, highest flexural strength values were obtained for ICE. After MA, similar to BL, highest flexural strength values were obtained for ICE. Only RX showed statistically significant difference when compared with ICE (p < 0.05). UC and FP showed similar flexural strength values with ICE (p > 0.05). It may be concluded that chewing forces on post-core systems may reduce the flexural strengths of FRPs.

Effect of Sonic Vibrations on Bond Strength of Fiberglass Posts Bonded to Root Dentin

Sonic vibrations may improve the bond strength and durability of fiberglass posts by improving adhesive penetration into dentin as well as the cement flow. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of sonic vibrations on the bond strength between fiberglass posts and root dentin using the pull-out test. Bovine roots were endodontically treated and divided randomly into four groups (n=12): Group C - conventional cementation (control); Group SA - sonic vibration (Smart Sonic Device, FGM) of the adhesive system and conventional post accommodation; SP group - conventional adhesive application and sonic vibration of the post during accommodation; and SASP - sonic vibration of the system adhesive and the post during accommodation. The posts were cleaned, treated with a silane and adhesive system (Ambar, FGM), and cemented with a dual-cured resin cement (Allcem Core, FGM). After 24 h, the specimens were subjected to mechanical tests and failure analyses. Representative specimens were analyzed by a scanning electron microscope to observe the cementation line. The results were analyzed using ANOVA and Tukey's test (a=5%). The bond strengths were as follows: SASP (90.9±27.1 N), C (121.4±60.6 N), SA (127.6±31.8 N) and SP (156.4±41.3 N). The use of sonic vibrations during the application of adhesive or post cementation separately did not affect the bond strength but had a negative effect when used for both procedures.

Mechanical properties related to the microstructure of seven different fiber reinforced composite posts

PURPOSE

The aim of this in vitro study was to evaluate the mechanical properties (bending strength and hardness) of seven different fiber reinforced composite posts, in relation to their microstructural characteristics.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Two hundred eighty posts were divided into seven groups of 40, one group for each type of post analyzed. Within each group, 15 posts were subjected to three-point bending strength test, 15 to a microhardess meter for the Knoop hardness, and 10 to Scanning Electron Microscope in order to determine the diameter of the fibers and the percentage of fibers embedded in the matrix. To compare the flexural strength in relation to the type of fiber, matrix, and the hardness of the posts, a Kruskal-Wallis H test was used. The Jonckheere-Terpstra test was used to determine if the volume percent of fibers in the post influenced the bending strength.

RESULTS

The flexural strength and the hardness depended on the type of fibers that formed the post. The lower flexural strength of a post could be due to deficient bonding between the fiber and the resin matrix.

CONCLUSION

According to the results, other factors, besides the microstructural characteristics, may also influence the mechanical properties of the post. The feature that has more influence on the mechanical properties of the posts is the type of fiber.

Effect of fibre posts, bone losses and fibre content on the biomechanical behaviour of endodontically treated teeth: 3D-finite element analysis

The aim of this work was to evaluate the stress distribution inside endodontically treated teeth restored with different posts (glass fibre, carbon fibre and steel posts) under different loading conditions by using a 3D-finite element analysis. The effect of masticatory and impact forces on teeth with different degrees of bone loss was analysed. The model consists of: dentine, post, cement, gutta-percha, core and crown. Four simulations were conducted with two static forces (170N horizontal and 100N oblique) and two sections constrained: 1mm (alveolar bone position in a normal periodontium) and 6mm (middle of root) below the crown. Von Mises and the principal stresses were evaluated and analysed with a 3-way ANOVA and Tukey test (α=0.05) and the effect of fibre percentage analysed. Significant differences were found among the stress values for all conditions (p<0.05). Impact load was always responsible for the most critical situation especially when the bone loss was more evident. The system with steel posts showed the highest principal stresses at the post-cement interface with horizontal load and top constraints (compressive stress of 121MPa and tensile stress of 115MPa). The use of glass posts provides a more homogeneous behaviour of the system with lower stresses. Higher fibre percentages gave higher stress in the posts. Moreover, larger bone losses are responsible for important increase in stress. Thus, this work demonstrated that periodontal disease has an important role in the success of tooth restoration after endodontic therapy, influencing the choice of post material and depth.

A novel anatomical short glass fiber reinforced post in an endodontically treated premolar mechanical resistance evaluation using acoustic emission under fatigue testing

This study evaluates the fracture resistance in an endodontically treated tooth using circular fiber-reinforced composite (FRC) and innovated anatomical short glass fiber reinforced (SGFR) posts under fatigue testing, monitored using the acoustic emission (AE) technique. An anatomical SGFR fiber post with an oval shape and slot/notch design was manufactured using an injection-molding machine. Crown/core maxillary second premolar restorations were executed using the anatomical SGFR and commercial cylindrical fiber posts under fatigue test to understand the mechanical resistances. The load versus AE signals in the fracture and fatigue tests were recorded to evaluate the restored tooth failure resistance. The static fracture resistance results showed that teeth restored using the anatomical SGFR post presented higher resistance than teeth restored using the commercial FRC post. The fatigue test endurance limitation (1.2×10⁶ cycles) was 207.1N for the anatomical SGFR fiber post, higher than the 185.3N found with the commercial FRC post. The average accumulated number of AE signals and corresponding micro cracks for the anatomical SGFR fiber post (153.0 hits and 2.44 cracks) were significantly lower than those for the commercial FRC post (194.7 hits and 4.78 cracks) under 40% of the static maximum resistance fatigue test load (pass 1.2×10⁶ cycles). This study concluded that the anatomical SGFR fiber post with surface slot/notch design made using precise injection molding presented superior static fracture resistance and fatigue endurance limitation than those for the commercial FRC post in an endodontically treated premolar.

Influence of root dentin treatment on the push-out bond strength of fiber posts

The aim of the present study was to assess whether different dentin conditioning protocols with different acids [phosphoric acid, ethylene diamine tetra acetic acid (EDTA), and polyacrylic acid (PAA)] influence the bond strength of fiber posts along the radicular depth when luted with self-adhesive resin cement. Twenty single-rooted teeth were randomly divided into four experimental groups (n = 5) according to dentin treatment: Group 1: no treatment; Group 2: etching with 35 % phosphoric acid for 10 s; Group 3: 17 % EDTA application for 60 s; and Group 4: conditioning with 25 % PAA for 30 s. RelyX Fiber Posts were luted with the self-adhesive resin cement RelyX Unicem 2 Automix (3M ESPE). Roots were transversally sectioned into nine 1-mm thick specimens, three corresponding to each root third and a push-out test was performed. Data were analyzed by two-way ANOVA and Tukey test (p < 0.05). Failure mode was determined and specimens with representative failures for each group were observed under scanning electron microscopy. According to the results, dentin treatment influenced the bond strength (p < 0.001), whereas the root third did not (p > 0.05). Fiber posts luted after treating dentin with phosphoric acid, and PAA exhibited the highest push-out bond strength values, while the lowest were obtained after EDTA application. Intermediate results were obtained when dentin was not conditioned. In conclusion, the bond strength of the self-adhesive resin cement RelyX Unicem 2 improves when root dentin is treated with 35 % phosphoric acid or 25 % PAA, before fiber posts luting irrespective of the root depth.

Effects of metal- and fiber-reinforced composite root canal posts on flexural properties

The aim of this study was to observe the effects of different test conditions on the flexural properties of root canal post. Metal- and fiber-reinforced composite root canal posts of various diameters were measured to determine flexural properties using a threepoint bending test at different conditions. In this study, the span length/post diameter ratio of root canal posts varied from 3.0 to 10.0. Multiple regression models for maximum load as a dependent variable were statistically significant. The models for flexural properties as dependent variables were statistically significant, but linear regression models could not be fitted to data sets. At a low span length/post diameter ratio, the flexural properties were distorted by occurrence of shear stress in short samples. It was impossible to obtain high span length/post diameter ratio with root canal posts. The addition of parameters or coefficients is necessary to appropriately represent the flexural properties of root canal posts.

Effect of short glass fiber/filler particle proportion on flexural and diametral tensile strength of a novel fiber-reinforced composite

PURPOSE

To evaluate the effect of glass fiber/filler particles proportion on flexural strength and diametral tensile strength of an experimental fiber-reinforced composite.

METHODS

Four experimental groups (N=10) were created using an experimental short fiber-reinforced composite, having as a factor under study the glass fiber (F) and filler particle (P) proportion: F22.5/P55 with 22.5 wt% of fiber and 55 wt% of filler particles; F25/P52.5 with 25 wt% of fiber and 52.5 wt% of filler particles; F27.5/P50 with 27.5 wt% of fiber and 50 wt% of filler particles; F30/P47.5 with 30 wt% of fiber and 47.5 wt% of filler particles. The experimental composite was made up by a methacrylate-based resin (50% Bis-GMA and 50% TEGDMA). Specimens were prepared for Flexural Strength (FS) (25 mm × 2 mm × 2 mm) and for Diametral Tensile Strength (DTS) (3×6 Ø mm) and tested at 0.5 mm/min in a universal testing machine.

RESULTS

The results (in MPa) showed significance (different superscript letters mean statistical significant difference) for FS (p<0.009) and DTS (p<0.001)--FS results: F22.5/P55: 217.24±20.64(B); F25/P52.5: 245.77±26.80(AB); F27.5/P50: 246.88±32.28(AB); F30/P47.5: 259.91±26.01(A). DTS results: F22.5/P55: 21.82±4.42(B); F25/P52.5: 22.00±7.40(B); F27.5/P50: 18.63±4.41(B); F30/P47.5: 31.05±2.97(A). In SEM analysis, areas without fiber reinforcement demonstrated to be more prone to the presence of bubbles and crack development. The group F30/P47.5 showed areas with a great quantity of fibers without empty spaces for crack propagation.

CONCLUSION

Increasing fiber content results in higher flexural and diametral tensile strength of an experimental composite reinforced with glass fibers.

Micro push-out bond strength of resin cement in roots exhibiting the butterfly effect

The aim of this study was to determine the bond strength of resin cement in root sections with or without butterfly effect. Fifteen single-rooted human maxillary central incisors were decoronated and prepared up to size 40. After post space preparation, the resin cement was placed into the post space and the fiber posts were luted. 1 mm thickness slices were obtained and the presence of the butterfly effect was recorded. A push-out test was then used to measure the bond strength between the resin cement and root dentin. Data were analyzed using independent samples of t and χ(2) tests (p = 0.05). The sections exhibiting butterfly effect showed higher push-out bond strength values than those of without butterfly effect (p < 0.05). Butterfly effect can influence the push-out bond strength. Thus, this phenomena should be taken into account, when push-out bond strength test is performed. Root sections exhibiting butterfly effect resulted in higher push-out bond strength values to root sections without butterfly effect.

Uniaxial compressive behavior of micro-pillars of dental enamel characterized in multiple directions

In this work, the compressive elastic modulus and failure strength values of bovine enamel at the first hierarchical level formed by hydroxyapatite (HA) nanofibers and organic matter are identified in longitudinal, transverse and oblique direction with the uniaxial micro-compression method. The elastic modulus values (∼70 GPa) measured here are within the range of results reported in the literature but these values were found surprisingly uniform in all orientations as opposed to the previous nanoindentation findings revealing anisotropic elastic properties in enamel. Failure strengths were recorded up to ∼1.7 GPa and different failure modes (such as shear, microbuckling, fiber fracture) governed by the orientation of the HA nanofibers were visualized. Structural irregularities leading to mineral contacts between the nanofibers are postulated as the main reason for the high compressive strength and direction-independent elastic behavior on enamels first hierarchical level.

Influence of structural hierarchy on the fracture behaviour of tooth enamel

Tooth enamel has the critical role of enabling the mastication of food and also of protecting the underlying vital dentin and pulp structure. Unlike most vital tissue, enamel has no ability to repair or remodel and as such has had to develop robust damage tolerance to withstand contact fatigue events throughout the lifetime of a species. To achieve such behaviour, enamel has evolved a complex hierarchical structure that varies slightly between different species. The major component of enamel is apatite in the form of crystallite fibres with a nanometre-sized diameter that extend from the dentin-enamel junction to the oral surface. These crystallites are bound together by proteins and peptides into a range of hierarchical structures from micrometre diameter prisms to 50-100 μm diameter bundles of prisms known as Hunter-Schreger bands. As a consequence of such complex structural organization, the damage tolerance of enamel increases through various toughening mechanisms in the hierarchy but at the expense of fracture strength. This review critically evaluates the role of hierarchy on the development of the R-curve and the stress-strain behaviour. It attempts to identify and quantify the multiple mechanisms responsible for this behaviour as well as their impact on damage tolerance.

Enhanced properties of fiberglass-reinforced photocurable resin pile by introducing different fiberglass surface treatments and their biological evolution

The properties of fiberglass-reinforced photocurable resin piles are enhanced by introducing different fiberglass surface treatments, which shows good cell compatibility.

Fracture resistance of endodontically treated roots with oval canals restored with oval and circular posts

INTRODUCTION

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of post space preparations with circular and oval post drills and the placement of oval and circular posts on the fracture strength of roots with oval canals.

METHODS

Seventy mandibular premolars with oval root canals were decoronated. Fourteen teeth were used as a control group (group 1), and the root canals of the remaining teeth were prepared up to size #30. The root canals were filled, and the samples were randomly divided into 4 experimental groups as follows: post space preparation with circular-shaped drills (group 2), post space preparation with oval-shaped drills (group 3), circular post placement (group 4), and oval post placement (group 5). A fracture strength test was performed on each specimen, and the data were statistically evaluated using 1-way analysis of variance and Tukey post hoc tests.

RESULTS

The fracture strengths of the circular posts-placed group were higher than those of the oval post-placed group (P < .001). The post space preparation using oval-shaped drills significantly decreased the fracture strength of the roots compared with the control group (P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

Within the limitations of the present study, oval posts did not provide a higher fracture resistance to endodontically treated roots with oval canals compared with circular posts. Therefore, clinicians should be aware that oval posts are similar to circular posts in terms of enhancing the fracture resistance of roots with oval canals.

Mechanical effect of static loading on endodontically treated teeth restored with fiber-reinforced posts

The aim of this study was to investigate the mechanical behavior of a dental system built up with fiber-reinforced composite (FRC) endodontic posts with different types of fibers and two cements (the first one used with a primer, the second one without it). Six FRC posts were used. Each system was characterized in terms of structural efficiency under external applied loads similar to masticatory forces. An oblique force was applied and stiffness and maximum load data were obtained. The same test was used for the dentine. The systems were analyzed by scanning electron microscope (SEM) to investigate the surface of the post and inner surface of root canal after failure. The mechanical tests showed that load values in dental systems depend on the post material and used cement. The highest load (281 ± 59 N) was observed for the conical glass fiber posts in the cement without primer. There was a 50 and 85% increase in the maximum load for two of the conical posts with glass fibers and a 229% increase for the carbon fiber posts in the cement without primer as compared with the cement with primer. Moreover, almost all the studied systems showed fracture resistances higher than the typical masticatory loads. The microscopic analysis underlined the good adhesion of the second cement at the interfaces between dentine and post. The mechanical tests confirmed that the strength of the dental systems subjected to masticatory loads was strictly related to the bond at the interface post/cement and cement/dentine.