Strain measurements and fracture resistance of endodontically treated premolars restored with all-ceramic restorations

Fracture resistance and fracture modes in endodontically treated maxillary premolars restored using different CAD-CAM onlays

PURPOSE

To examine the fracture resistance and fracture modes of endodontically treated teeth (ETT) restored using onlays of different materials fabricated using computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD-CAM).

METHODS

Sixty maxillary first premolars were randomly assigned to six groups (n=10). The first group comprised intact teeth (INT). The remaining premolars were prepared for mesio-occluso-distal cavity and root canal treatments. Group 2 was treated using polymer-reinforced zinc oxide-eugenol intermediate restorative material (IRM). Groups 3-6 were core build-up, prepared for onlay, and restored using resin nanoceramic (Cerasmart [CER]), polymer-infiltrated ceramic networks (Vita Enamic [VE]), lithium disilicate-based ceramic (IPS e.max CAD [EM]), or translucent zirconia (Katana Zirconia UTML [KZ]). All specimens were immersed in 37 °C distilled water for 24 h. Each specimen was loaded at 45° to the long axis until failure (crosshead speed, 0.5 mm/min). Fracture loads were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance and Tukey's post-hoc test (α=0.05).

RESULTS

There were no significant differences in fracture load among the INT, CER, VE, and EM groups. The fracture load in the KZ group was significantly higher than those in the other groups (P < 0.05). Fracture load was the lowest in the IRM group (P < 0.05). The unrestorable failure rate was 70% in the KZ group and 10-30% in the other experimental groups.

CONCLUSIONS

ETT restored using Cerasmart, Vita Enamic, or IPS e.max CAD onlays had fracture resistance and patterns comparable to those of intact teeth. Katana Zirconia UTML-restored ETT had the highest fracture load but also a higher unrestorable failure rate.

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.

The effect of preparation design on fracture resistance of endodontically treated maxillary premolars restored with lithium disilicate computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing endocrowns: An in vitro study

Purpose

This study aimed to assess the effect of preparation design on fracture resistance (FR) of endodontically treated maxillary premolars restored with lithium disilicate (LDS) endocrowns fabricated by the computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technology.

Materials and Methods

In this in vitro, experimental study, 30 sound maxillary premolars were randomly assigned to three groups (n = 10) of control (no preparation), endocrown preparation with butt-joint design without ferrule, and endocrown preparation with ferrule (shoulder design with 1 mm height). After restoration fabrication and cementation, the teeth underwent thermocycling, were mounted with 45° angle, and subjected to compressive load in a universal testing machine to measure their FR. The mode of failure was also determined under a stereomicroscope. Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA and Tukey's test (α =0.05).

Results

The shoulder group showed the highest FR (1768.98 ± 386.1 N). The difference in FR was statistically significant among the three groups (P < 0.05). Pairwise comparisons revealed that the shoulder group had significantly higher FR than the butt-joint (P = 0.001) and control (P = 0.009) groups. However, the difference in FR between the butt-joint and control groups was not significant (P = 0.75). The mode of failure was not significantly different among the three groups (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

Preparation design had a significant effect on FR of endodontically treated maxillary premolars restored with LDS CAD/CAM Endocrowns, such that addition of a short axial wall in shoulder group significantly increased the FR of endocrowns.

Particulate Filler and Discontinuous Fiber Filler Resin Composite's Adaptation and Bonding to Intra-Radicular Dentin

The aim of this study was to assess adaptation and bonding to root canal dentin of discontinuous (short) glass fiber-reinforced composite to intra-radicular dentin (DSGFRC).

METHODS

Seventy virgin human teeth were extracted and then endodontically treated; then samples were randomly divided into 7 groups (n = 10), based on the materials' combinations as follows: Group 1, a two-bottle universal adhesive + DSGFRC; Group 2, a single-component universal adhesive + DSGFRC; Groups 3 and 4, the same materials of Goups 1 and 2 were used but after cleaning of the canal walls with 17% EDTA and final irrigation with 5.25% NaOCl Ultrasound Activated (UA); Group 5, traditional prefabricated fiber posts were luted after being silanized with G-Multi Primer; Groups 6 and 7, like Group 5 but after ultrasonic irrigation (UA). All sample roots were cut 1 mm thick (n = 10) to be evaluated regarding root canal adaptation using a light microscope and scanning electron microscope (SEM) and push-out bond strength. These results were statistically analyzed by Kruskal-Wallis analysis of variance by ranks. The level of significance was set at p < 0.05.

RESULTS

Bond strength forces varied between 6.66 and 8.37 MPa and no statistically significant differences were recorded among the groups. By microscopic examination, it was noted that ultrasonic irrigation increased the adaptation of the materials to the dentin surface.

CONCLUSIONS

Within the limitations of this in vitro study, it may be concluded that when DSGFRC was used for intracanal anchorage in the post-endodontic reconstruction, similar push-out retentive force and strength to those of traditional fiber posts cemented with particulate filler resin composite cements were achieved.

Influence of thermo-mechanical aging on fracture resistance and wear of digitally standardized chairside computer-aided-designed/computer-assisted-manufactured restorations

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the influence of thermal cycling and mechanical loading (TCML) aging on fracture resistance and wear behavior of various chairside computer-aided-designed/computer-assisted-manufactured (CAD/CAM) premolar crowns cemented on standardized tooth abutments.

METHODS

Eighty chairside CAD/CAM crowns were prepared using lithium disilicate (IPS e.max CAD; EM), zirconia-infiltrated lithium silicate (Celtra Duo; CD), polymer-infiltrated ceramic network (Vita Enamic; VE), and resin nanoceramics (Cerasmart; CS) (n = 20). The specimens were divided into two groups (n = 10). In one group, they were subjected to TCML: thermocycling (6000 cycles in distilled water at 5-55 °C) and mechanical loading (50 N for 1.2 × 10⁶ cycles), while in control group they were stored in distilled water (37 °C for 24 h). The fracture load, height loss, and volume wear of the crowns were measured after TCML. Fractography was performed on fractured specimens. Data were analyzed using analysis of variance and multiple comparison tests (α=0.05).

RESULTS

The mean fracture loads of EM and CD were significantly higher than those of EC and CS (p<0.05). There was no significant change in the fracture load of any CAD/CAM crowns after TCML (p>0.05). CS exhibited a significantly higher volume wear than the other materials investigated. The wear tracts of all TCML crowns acted as failure origins during the fracture test.

CONCLUSIONS

The fracture resistance of glass-ceramic CAD/CAM crowns was significantly higher than that of resin composite crowns. A 5-year TCML aging did not affect the fracture resistance of CAD/CAM crowns investigated. However, TCML treatment produces a larger wear track in CS than in other materials.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Appropriate chairside CAD/CAM restorative material should be selected for successful clinical practice after considering the fracture and wear resistance of the crowns.

The Influence on Fracture Resistance of Different Composite Resins and Prefabricated Posts to Restore Endodontically Treated Teeth

Recent formulations of resin-based composites have incorporated different combinations of materials. However, the mechanical and bonding behavior of these materials with intraradicular posts are unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of light-cure and dual-cure resin composite posts on the fracture resistance of endodontically-treated teeth. Materials and Methods: Ninety extracted human upper canines were selected and randomly divided into nine groups (n=10): (G1) endodontically treated teeth without endodontic posts; (G2) glass-fiber post cemented with glass-ionomer cement; (G3) endodontic post by dual-cure composite resin (Rebilda DC); (G4) endodontic post by dual-cure composite resin (Cosmecore); (G5) endodontic post by dual-cure composite resin (Bis-Core); (G6) endodontic post by light-cure composite resin; (G7) glass-fiber post customized with flowable composite resin; (G8) glass-fiber post cemented with light-cure composite resin; (G9) glass-fiber post cemented with self-adhesive resin cement. After the post insertion, all specimens were subjected to mechanical (250,000 cycles) and thermocycling (6000 cycles, 5 °C/55 °C) and immediate loading at 45 degrees in a universal testing machine until fracture. The data were analyzed by one-way ANOVA and multiple comparisons using the Fisher LSD Method (p < 0 05). Results: The mean failure loads (±SD) for the groups ranged from 100.7 ± 22.6 N to 221.9 ± 48.9 N. The G1 group (without endodontic posts) had a higher fracture strength than all experimental groups (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Within the limitations, the light- and dual-cure post technique did not present lower fracture resistance values as compared to the conventional glass-fiber post.

Post-Fatigue Fracture Resistance of Lithium Disilicate and Polymer-Infiltrated Ceramic Network Indirect Restorations over Endodontically-Treated Molars with Different Preparation Designs: An In-Vitro Study

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the fatigue to cyclic and static resistance of indirect restorations with different preparation designs made either of lithium disilicate (LS) or polymer-infiltrated ceramic network (PICN). Eighty-four (n = 84) molars were chosen, endodontically treated, and prepared with standardized MOD cavities. The molars were randomly divided into 6 study groups (n = 14) taking into account the "preparation design'' (occlusal veneer with 1.2 mm occlusal thickness; overlay with 1.6 mm occlusal thickness; adhesive crown with 2 mm occlusal thickness) and the "CAD/CAM material'' (E-max CAD, Ivoclar vivadent; Vita Enamic, Vita). A fatigue test was conducted with a chewing simulator set at 50 N for 1,500,000 cycles. Fracture resistance was assessed using a universal testing machine with a 6 mm diameter steel sphere applied to the specimens at a constant speed of 1 mm/min. A SEM analysis before the fracture test was performed to visually analyze the tooth-restoration margins. A statistical analysis was performed with a two-way ANOVA and a post-hoc pairwise comparison was performed using the Tukey test. The two-way ANOVA test showed that both the preparation design factor (p = 0.0429) and the CAD/CAM material factor (p = 0.0002) had a significant influence on the fracture resistance of the adhesive indirect restorations. The interaction between the two variables did not show any significance (p = 0.8218). The occlusal veneer had a lower fracture resistance than the adhesive crown (p = 0.042) but not lower than the overlay preparation (p = 0.095). LS was more resistant than PICN (p = 0.002). In conclusion, in the case of endodontically treated teeth, overlay preparation seems to be a valid alternative to the traditional full crown preparation, while occlusal veneers should be avoided in restoring non-vital molars with a high loss of residual tooth structure. LS material is more resistant compared to PICN.

The influence of indirect bonded restorations on clinical prognosis of endodontically treated teeth: A systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

The loss of the dental coronal portion following carious lesions or fractures leads to endodontic treatment with subsequent restoration to ensure correct anatomy and function. Recently, partial adhesive restorations have been widely proposed to increase the survival rate of endodontically treated teeth. The primary purpose of this review is to assess the failure rate of indirect partial adhesive restorations on endodontically treated teeth (ETT), considering the follow-up period.

METHODS

The indications reported in the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis) were used to draft the present review. The study was constructed on PICO questions: population (patients who need indirect adhesive restorative treatment on endodontically treated teeth with onlay and overlay), intervention (onlay and overlay), control (patients with onlay and overlay on endodontically treated teeth) and outcome (failure rate and types of failure for onlay and overlay). The asked scientific question was: what are the failure rate and types of failure for adhesive indirect partial restorations on ETT?

RESULTS

The overall failure rate that emerges is 0.087 with a ratio of 121/1254, I² 80 % p-value< 0.001. Moreover, by meta-regression with covariates the follow-up period reports a coefficient of 0.013 with a P-value< 0.001. In conclusion, the indirect partial restorations on endodontically treated teeth displayed overall acceptable outcomes in terms of success from 2 to 4 years after their placement with only 4.32 % of failure. Failures increase after 7 years up to 12-30 years with failure rates of approximatively 10.65 % and 20.94 %. The analysis of the included articles reporting the causes of restorations failures showed that 15.51 % of cases were related to the loss of dental element.

SIGNIFICANCE

Besides the survival rates of indirect adhesive restorations on endodontically treated posterior teeth, it was highlighted that the majority of failures appeared restorable. Thus, partial restorations seemed able to prevent the ETT tooth loss.

Post-Fatigue Fracture and Marginal Behavior of Endodontically Treated Teeth: Partial Crown vs. Full Crown vs. Endocrown vs. Fiber-Reinforced Resin Composite

Objectives: To investigate in vitro post-fatigue fracture behavior of endodontically treated molars having been differently restored. Methods: A total of 120 extracted human molars were used. A total of 120 specimens in 14 test groups and one control group (n = 8) were root canal treated. After postendodontic sealing and build-up (AdheSE Universal, SDR), additional MOD preparations were cut. Postendodontic restorations were: Direct restorations (Tetric EvoCeram BulkFill bonded with AdheSE Universal and EverX Posterior/Essentia bonded with G-Premio Bond; as filling (F) or direct partial crown (DPC) after reducing the cusps 2 mm; indirect adhesive restorations (partial crown/PC vs. full crown/FC): e.max CAD, Celtra Duo, both luted with Variolink Esthetic; indirect zirconia restorations (partial crown/PC vs. full crown/FC), luted with RelyX Unicem 2; indirect non-bonded cast gold restorations (partial crown/PC vs. full crown/FC; Degunorm), luted with Ketac Cem. Before and after 300,000 thermocycles (5/55 °C) and 1.2 Mio. A total of 100 N load cycles, replicas were analyzed under a SEM for marginal quality in enamel and dentin (where applicable) and finally, specimens were loaded until fracture. Results: In direct groups, there was no difference between RC and FRC in fracture strength (p > 0.05); however, direct partial crowns showed higher post-fatigue fracture resistance. Regarding marginal quality, intracoronal FRC restorations exhibited more gap-free margins in enamel than RC. In the indirect groups, there was no significant difference between partial and full crowns in any of the adhesively luted ceramic groups regarding post-fatigue fracture resistance. Zirconia partial crowns exhibited significantly lower marginal quality in enamel. Indirect groups performed significantly better than direct groups in fracture resistance. Within the indirect restorations, both cast gold groups and zirconia full crowns exhibited the highest fracture resistance being superior to control teeth. Significances: Within the limits of this in vitro investigation, it can be concluded that any kind of indirect restoration with cusp replacement is suitable for ETT restoration when a certain cavity extension is exceeded. All indirect restorations, i.e., endocrowns, partial crowns, and full crowns showed a promising performance after in vitro fatigue-loading.

Clinical outcome of bonded partial indirect posterior restorations on vital and non-vital teeth: a systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

The survival rate of indirect partial adhesive restorations on vital versus endodontically treated teeth is still controversial. The hypothesis is that there may be a difference in the survival rate of partial adhesive restorations performed on non-vital teeth compared to vital teeth.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This systematic review was conducted following the PRISMA guidelines. The considered clinical studies investigated the outcomes of adhesive inlays, onlays, and overlays conducted over the past 40 years, focusing on Kaplan-Meier survival curves to calculate the hazard ratio (primary objective) and the survival rate (secondary objective) between vital and non-vital teeth. The risk of bias was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Studies included in the review were identified through bibliographic research on electronic databases ("PubMed," "Scopus," "Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trial," and "Embase"). The K agreement between the two screening reviewers was evaluated.

RESULTS

A total of 55,793 records were identified on PubMed, Scopus, and other bibliographic sources, and after the application of the eligibility and inclusion criteria, eight articles were included for qualitative analysis and six for quantitative analysis. The meta-analysis of the primary and secondary outcomes demonstrated that hazard ratios (HR = 8.41, 95% CI: [4.50, 15.72]) and survival rates (OR = 3.24, 95% CI: [1.76, 5.82]) seemed more favorable for indirect partial adhesive restorations on vital teeth than for those on endodontically treated teeth.

CONCLUSIONS

Within the limits of this study, these findings suggest that the risk of failure of indirect partial adhesive restorations on endodontically treated teeth is higher than on vital teeth.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

The use of partial adhesive restorations on vital and endodontically treated teeth showed different long-term clinical outcomes.

In Vitro Fracture Resistance of Endodontically Treated Premolar Teeth Restored with Prefabricated and Custom-Made Fibre-Reinforced Composite Posts

(1) Background: The study aimed to compare and analyse the differences between the features of prefabricated fibre-reinforced composite (FRC) posts and custom-made FRC posts in the form of a tape and confirm the necessity of using FRC posts in teeth treated endodontically in comparison to direct reconstruction with a composite material. (2) Methods: Sixty premolars after endodontic treatment were used. The teeth were divided into four groups (n-15). Group 1: teeth with embedded prefabricated posts (Mirafit White); group 2: teeth with embedded prefabricated posts (Rebilda); group 3 teeth with embedded custom-made posts in the form of a tape (EverStick); group 4: teeth without a post restored with composite material. The compressive strength of the teeth was tested using the Instron-5944 testing machine until the sample broke. The crystal structure of the investigated posts was detected with the X-ray diffractometer (3) Results: During the experiment, the maximum values of forces at which the damage of the restored premolar teeth after endodontic treatment occurred were obtained. The best results were obtained for teeth rebuilt with Rebilda Posts (1119 N), while teeth with cemented Mirafit White posts were the weakest (968 N). Teeth without an embedded FRC post, rebuilt only with light-cured composite material, obtained the lowest value-859 N. (4) Conclusions: The use of FRC posts increases the resistance to damage of an endodontically treated tooth when compared to direct restoration with light-cured composite material.

External Marginal Gap Variation and Residual Fracture Resistance of Composite and Lithium-Silicate CAD/CAM Overlays after Cyclic Fatigue over Endodontically-Treated Molars

The purpose of this in vitro study was to evaluate the external marginal gap variation with a 3D quantitative method and the residual fracture resistance after cyclic fatigue in endodontically treated molars restored with overlays of different materials, with and without fiber posts-supported buildups. Forty-eight human maxillary molars were selected, endodontically treated, prepared with standardized MOD cavities and randomly allocated into 6 study groups considering the "core strategy" (build-up with composite resin; build-up with composite resin supported by a fiber post); and the "restorative material" of the indirect adhesive overlay (GrandioBlocks, Voco; Cerasmart, GC; CeltraDuo, Dentsply). All procedures were executed according with manufacturers guidelines. Micro-CT analysis prior and after cyclic fatigue were executed, followed by scanning electron microscope analysis and fracture resistance test. The Two-Way ANOVA analysis showed that interfacial gap progression was significantly influenced by the "core strategy" (p < 0.01) but not of "restorative material" (p = 0.59). Concerning fracture resistance, "restorative material" was statistically significant (p < 0.01), while "core strategy" (p = 0.63) and the interaction (p = 0.84) were not. In conclusion, the fiber post presence within the build-up promoted a lower interfacial gap opening after fatigue, evaluated through micro-CT scans. In terms of fracture resistance, teeth restored with Cerasmart and Celtra Duo were statistically similar, but superior to GrandioBlocks.

Investigating inlay designs of class II cavity with deep margin elevation using finite element method

Background

This study evaluates the mechanical performance of deep margin elevation technique for carious cavities by considering the shape designs and material selections of inlay using a computational approach combined with the design of experiments method. The goal is to understand the effects of the design parameters on the deep margin elevation technique and provide design guidelines from the biomechanics perspective.

Methods

Seven geometric design parameters for defining an inlay’s shape of a premolar were specified, and the influence of cavity shape and material selection on the overall stress distribution was investigated via automated modelling. Material selection included composite resin, ceramic, and lithium disilicate. Finite element analysis was performed to evaluate the mechanical behavior of the tooth and inlay under a compressive load. Next, the analysis of variance was conducted to identify the parameters with a significant effect on the stress occurred in the materials. Finally, the response surface method was used to analyze the stress responses of the restored tooth with different design parameters.

Results

The restored tooth with a larger isthmus width demonstrated superior mechanical performance in all three types of inlay materials, while the influence of other design parameters varied with the inlay material selection. The height of the deep margin elevation layer insignificantly affected the mechanical performance of the restored tooth.

Conclusions

A proper geometric design of inlay enhances the mechanical performance of the restored tooth and could require less volume of the natural dentin to be excavated. Furthermore, under the loading conditions evaluated in this study, the deep margin elevation layer did not extensively affect the strength of the tooth structure.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12903-021-01630-z.

A comparison of mvM stress of inlays, onlays and endocrowns made from various materials and their bonding with molars in a computer simulation of mastication - FEA

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of the study was to compare the mvM stresses occurring in inlays, onlays and endocrowns made from different materials and their bonding with molars in a computer simulation of mastication.

METHODS

The study was conducted using the finite elements method with contact elements. Sixteen 3D first molar models were created of a intact tooth - T; a tooth with a ceramic inlay - IN; a tooth with an onlay - ON; and a tooth with an endocrown - EN. The restorations were made of: Comp - resin nanoceramic; Hc - hybrid ceramic; Le - leucite ceramic; Dlit - lithium disilicate; and Zr - zirconia. Computer simulations of mastication were performed. The equivalent stresses according to the modified von Mises criterion (mvM) were calculated in model materials and contact stresses at the interface cement-dental tissue around the examined restorations.

RESULTS

The highest equivalent mvM stresses were concentrated in buccal margins of inlays. The mvM stresses recorded in onlays were 1.6-5 times lower than those found in inlays, while in endocrowns they were 2.3-6.5 times lower. Around the onlays and endocrowns, in tooth structures and luting cement, mvM stresses were significantly lower compared to teeth restored with inlays. The tensile and shear contact stresses between inlays and teeth were several times lower than under another restorations. The highest stresses (58.5MPa) occurred in the zirconia inlay. The stresses observed in the enamel of a tooth restored with an INZr inlay were half those noted in INComp, and a third of those observed in cement. Tensile contact stresses at the interface between the INZr inlay and dental tissue were 4.5 times lower than in the INComp, and the shear stresses were more than 7 times lower.

SIGNIFICANCE

The highest values and unfavorable of stress levels occurred in teeth restored with inlays. Cavities MOD in molars should be reconstructed with cusp-covering restorations. The endocrown in molars should withstand physiological loading. The higher the modulus of elasticity of the restoration material, the higher the stresses in the restorations, while the lower stresses were observed in the tooth structures, luting cement and at the interface between the restoration and the dental tissue. Ceramic restorations should provide better protection and marginal seal of the reconstructed tooth than composite ones.

Fracture behavior of root-amputated teeth at different amount of periodontal support - a preliminary in vitro study

Background

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of the amount of periodontal support on the fracture resistance of root-amputated maxillary molar teeth restored with either direct class. I. restorations or class II. mesio-occluso-distal (MOD) indirect overlay restorations with cuspal coverage.

Methods

Sixty sound maxillary first molars were collected and randomly divided into four groups. In Groups 1 and 2, MOD cavities were prepared and all cusps were reduced by 2 mm, whereas in Group 3 and 4, only a conservative Class I. cavity was prepared. Subsequently, root canal treatment was performed and the mesio-buccal roots were amputated. Groups 1 and 2 were restored with indirect composite overlay, while Groups 3 and 4 received direct composite fillings. After restoration, teeth were embedded as follows: Groups 1 and 3: normal bone level, Groups 2 and 4: furcation involvement. The specimens were submitted to static fracture resistance testing. Fracture thresholds and fracture patterns were measured and evaluated.

Results

Group 1 had the highest fracture resistance (2311,6 N) among the restored groups and showed statistically significant difference compared to Group 2 (p = 0.038) and Group 4 (p = 0.011). There was no statistically significant difference in terms of fracture resistance between the rest of the groups. In terms of the fracture patterns, Group 3 was characterized by the highest percentage (60%) of mostly favorable fractures, while the rest of the groups showed predominantly unfavorable ones.

Conclusions

The amount of periodontal support seems to influence the fracture resistance of root-amputated and restored maxillary molars.

Influence of Horseback Riding and Horse Simulator Riding on Heart Rate Variability: Are There Differences?

This study aimed to compare the heart rate variability (HRV) in healthy young people while riding a real horse or a horse gait simulator. The sample consisted of a group of 23 healthy young adults aged 22.91 (2.37), who rode a horse for five minutes at walking speed and spent five minutes on a horse gait simulator, while their HRV values were being recorded. Furthermore, immediately after each protocol, the HRV at rest was also recorded to observe the acute effects. We used the paired samples t-test to compare between the HRV during the horse-riding and the horse simulator-riding activities, as well as the differences in the acute effects between both situations. The findings indicate that the HRV was lower when participants were riding the horse compared with the activity on the horse simulator. However, no differences were observed immediately after the two protocols. Therefore, we state that the sympathetic tone is higher while riding a real horse than while riding a horse simulator. These differences may be due to emotional aspects and not due to differences in the physical load, considering the absence of differences in the acute effects.

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.

Fracture Resistance of Endodontically Treated Maxillary Premolars Restored With Different Methods

Purpose:

The purpose of this in vitro study was to evaluate the resistance and patterns of fracture of endodontically treated maxillary premolars (ETPs) restored with different methods.

Methods and Materials:

Mesio-occluso-distal cavities were prepared in 50 extracted caries-free human maxillary premolars after endodontic treatment. The teeth were divided into five groups (n=10), according to the restorative method. G1: intact teeth (control group); G2: conventional composite resin; G3: conventional composite resin with a horizontal glass fiber post inserted between buccal and palatal walls; G4: bulk-fill flowable and bulk-fill restorative composites; and G5: ceramic inlay. For direct restorations, Filtek Z350 XT, Filtek Bulk Fill Flowable Restorative, and Filtek Bulk Fill Posterior Restorative were used. Indirect restorations were fabricated from a pressable lithium disilicate glass-ceramic (IPS e-max Press) and adhesively cemented (RelyX Ultimate). All specimens were subjected to thermocycling (5°C to 55°C/5000 cycles) and additionally submitted to cyclic loading 50,000 times in an Electro-Mechanical Fatigue Machine. Next, the specimens were subjected to a compressive load at a crosshead speed of 1 mm/min until fracture. The fractured specimens were analyzed to determine the fracture pattern using a stereomicroscope, and then representative specimens were carbon coated to allow for the studying of the fracture surface under scanning electron microscopy. One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to compare fracture resistance of the groups. The results of fracture patterns were submitted to the Fisher exact test (α=0.05).

Results:

All specimens survived fatigue. Mean (standard deviation) failure loads (N) for groups were as follows: G1: 949.6 (331.5); G2: 999.6 (352.5); G3: 934.5 (233.6); G4: 771.0 (147.4); and G5: 856.7 (237.5). The lowest fracture resistance was recorded for G4, and the highest ones were recorded for G2, followed by that of G1 and G3. One-way ANOVA did not reveal significant differences between groups (p&gt;0.05). The highest repairable fracture rates were observed in G1 (100%) and G3 (80%).

Conclusions:

ETPs restored with conventional composite resin with or without horizontal fiber post, bulk-fill composite, and ceramic inlay showed fracture resistance similar to that of sound teeth. Conventional composite resin restorations exhibited the highest prevalence of unrepairable fractures, and the insertion of a horizontal fiber post decreased this prevalence. Intact teeth showed 100% of repairable fractures. It is difficult to extrapolate the results directly to a clinical situation due to the limitations of this study.

Fracture load of metal-ceramic, monolithic, and bi-layered zirconia-based posterior fixed dental prostheses after thermo-mechanical cycling

OBJECTIVES

This study aims to evaluate the fracture load of differently fabricated 3-unit posterior fixed dental prostheses (FDPs) with an intermediate pontic.

METHODS

Fifty sets of two stainless-steel abutments were randomly assigned to five groups (n = 10 each) depending on the material and technique used for manufacturing the FDPs: (1) Metal-ceramic (MC, control); (2) Lava Zirconia (LZ, bi-layered); (3) Lava Plus (LM, monolithic); (4) VITA In-Ceram YZ (YZ, bi-layered); and (5) IPS e-max ZirCAD (ZZ, bi-layered). After being luted to the dies, all FDPs were submitted to thermo-mechanical cycling (120,000 masticatory cycles, 50 N; plus 774 thermal cycles of 5 °C/55 °C, dwell time: 30 s). Samples were then subjected to a three-point bending test until fracture in a universal testing machine (cross-head speed: 1 mm/min). Fracture load of the veneering ceramic (VF) and total fracture load (TF) were recorded. Microstructure and failure patterns were assessed. Data was analysed using one-way ANOVA and Tukey HSD post-hoc tests (α = 0.05).

RESULTS

MC restorations recorded higher VF and TF values than did zirconia FDPs (p = 0.0001), which showed no between-group differences. Within the bi-layered groups, TF was significantly higher than VF. LM pieces registered lower average grain size than did LZ specimens (p = 0.001). Overall, the connector was the weakest part.

CONCLUSIONS

All of the groups tested could withstand clinical chewing forces in terms of average fracture load. Zirconia-based samples performed similarly to each other, but showed lower mean fracture load values than did metal-ceramic ones.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Monolithic zirconia may be recommendable for solving the chipping problem.

Stability of endodontically treated teeth with differently invasive restorations: Adhesive vs. non-adhesive cusp stabilization

OBJECTIVES

Aim of the present study was to evaluate fracture strength of endodontically treated molars with different preparations/restorations after thermomechanical loading in vitro.

METHODS

264 extracted human third molars were used. Beside the control group, 256 teeth in 32 test groups (n=8) received root canal treatment (MTwo #40/.6) and root canal obturation with AH Plus and Guttapercha. After postendodontic sealing and build-up (Syntac, SDR), specimens were additionally prepared MO or MOD. Postendodontic restorations were: Direct restorations (Tetric EvoCeram Bulk Fill bonded with Syntac; as filling or direct partial crown (PC) after reducing the cusps 3mm; amalgam as filling or direct pin-retained partial crown (PC)), vs. indirect adhesive restorations (I: Inlay vs. PC; IPS Empress I/PC; Celtra Duo I/PC; e.max CAD I/PC; Lava Ultimate I/PC; Enamic I/PC - all inserted with Syntac/Variolink) vs. cemented cast gold I/PC. After 300,000 thermocycles (5/55°C) and 1.2 Mio. 100N load cycles, specimens were loaded until fracture.

RESULTS

Whereas IPS Empress showed no difference between I and PC (p>0.05), in all other groups PC were significantly more stable than fillings/inlays (p<0.05), this effect was more pronounced after MOD preparations. Cast gold PC exhibited the highest fracture strengths (p<0.05), inlays the lowest (p<0.05). IPS Empress was generally inferior to the other bonded materials under investigation (p<0.05) which as PC almost reached the level of control specimens. Amalgam fillings showed the worst outcome (p<0.05).

SIGNIFICANCES

Less invasive preparation designs were not beneficial for the stability of postendodontic restorations. Except for IPS Empress, PC were generally more successful in restabilization of weakened cusps after endodontic treatment and preparation. Cast gold PC remain the ultimate stabilization tool for ETT in terms of fracture resistance.

Longevity of class 2 direct restorations in root-filled teeth: A retrospective clinical study

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate retrospectively the longevity of endodontically treated teeth restored with direct resin composite without cusp coverage, with or without the insertion of fibre posts. The null hypothesis was that direct restorations with fibre posts perform better than those without fibre posts.

METHODS

Patients recruited for this study were treated in the Department of Cariology and Operative Dentistry, University of Turin, between 2008 and 2011. In total, 247 patients with 376 root treated posterior teeth, restored with direct resin composite, were recalled for a control visit. Only second-class cavities were considered. Two groups were defined based on the absence (Group A) or presence (Group B) of fibre post. Failures and complications, such as periodontal failure, endodontic failure, tooth extraction, root fracture, post fracture, post debonding, replacement of restoration, crown displacement, and coronal-tooth fracture, were noted. Functional restoration quality was evaluated following the modified USPHS criteria. Data were evaluated statistically with ANOVA.

RESULTS

Group A consisted of 128 patients with 178 restorations (88 premolars, 90 molars) with a median follow-up of 34.44 months. Group B consisted of 119 patients with 198 teeth (92 premolars, 106 molars) with a median follow-up of 35.37 months. Direct restorations with fibre posts were statistically significantly more functional (95.12% success) than those without fibre posts (80% success) because of less marginal discolouration, better marginal integrity, and higher restoration integrity.

CONCLUSIONS

The null hypothesis was accepted because direct post-endodontic restorations with fibre posts performed better than restorations without posts after 3 years of masticatory function.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

An evaluation of the longevity of post endodontic direct restoration would seem to enhance the fiber post insertion within a composite restoration to reduce clinical failures.