Bond strength between root dentin and three glass-fiber post systems

Effect of endodontic sealers on push-out bond strength of CAD-CAM or prefabricated fiber glass posts

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of endodontic sealer (ES) on bond strength (BS) of prefabricated or milled-CAD-CAM (computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing) glass-fiber-posts (GFP). Canals of 90 single-rooted teeth were prepared for filling by the single-cone technique with gutta-percha and one of the following ES: AH Plus (epoxy resin), Endofill (zinc-oxide and eugenol), and Bio-C Sealer (calcium-silicate). After post-space preparation, tooth-specimens were equally divided in half according to type of GFP to be used. In the half to receive milled-CAD-CAM posts, tooth specimens were molded with acrylic resin to obtain replicas. These were scanned to enable the laboratory to produce the milled-CAD-CAM GFPs (Fiber CAD Lab, Angelus) by the subtractive technique. The other half of samples received prefabricated GFPs (Exacto, Angelus) (n=15). The GFPs were cemented with dual-cure resin cement (Panavia F2.0, Kuraray). Each root was sectioned into two slices per root region (cervical, middle, apical) that were subjected to the push-out BS test, in a universal testing machine. Failure mode (FM) was classified by scores. The BS data were submitted to generalized linear model analyses, while FM was analyzed using the chi-square test (a=0.05). BS showed no significant difference among the three ES (p > 0.05). BS was significantly higher for prefabricated (mean 10.84 MPa) versus milled-CAD-CAM GFPs (mean 6.94 MPa) (p <0.0001), irrespective of ES. The majority showed mixed failures. It could be concluded that type of ES did not affect BS of GFPs to dentin, and prefabricated-GFPs had higher bond-strength than customized-milled-CAD-CAM GFPs.

In Situ Zymography Analysis of Matrix Metalloproteinases Activity Following Endodontic Irrigation Protocols and Correlation to Root Dentine Bond Strength

The objective was to evaluate the effect of different root canal irrigating solutions on the activity of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), and correlation to the push-out bond strength (PBS) and nanoleakage expression (NL) in the root dentin. Seventy-two single-rooted teeth were treated endodontically and distributed into four groups (n = 6 for in-situ zymography, n = 10 for PBS, and n = 2 for NL per group) according to the irrigating solutions used: (I) saline (S); (II) 5.25% sodium hypochlorite (SH); (III) 5.25% SH + 10% citric acid (CA); and (IV) 5.25% SH + 10% CA + 0.2% chlorhexidine (CHX). After root canal obturation, post space was prepared to receive the glass fiber post. Dual-cure resin was used for luting and light polymerization was performed. The root/fiber post assemblies were sectioned and subjected to in situ zymography, and PBS and NL expression analysis tests. The enzymatic activity was quantified and expressed as a percentage of the green fluorescence, while fractographic evaluation was performed after PBS with a stereomicroscope, and data were statistically analyzed at p < 0.05. The zymography analysis shows high expression of MMPs in the middle third of the root in all groups, while the most abundant activity of MMPs following the irrigating solutions is observed in groups I and III, where saline and citric acid are used, respectively. Inversely, group IV, where chlorhexidine is the final rinse, records the lowest MMP activity with the highest PBS, and the statistical analysis of the groups are ranked as: IV > II > III > I (p < 0.05). The combination of SH, CA, and CHX results in lower expression of MMPs and higher push-out bond strength of fiber posts to root dentin, with no difference seen in the nanoleakage expression (p > 0.05); hence, this irrigation regime with chlorhexidine as a final rinse is more favorable than other combinations in ensuring optimal adhesion to root dentine.

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%.

Apexification and dentinal wall reinforcement using Biodentine and glass fiber post

A 21-year-old male patient reported with chief complaint of pain in the upper front teeth. Clinical examination revealed tooth fracture in teeth # 11, 21, and prior attempted endodontic treatment. The radiographic examination revealed periapical radiolucency in relation to upper central incisors with thinning of dentinal walls. The upper left central incisor had grossly diminished root canal dentin walls with immature apex, whereas the upper right central incisor had moderate loss of dentin from the root canal wall with an open apex. Hence, it was decided to extract the upper left central incisor, whereas apexification and root canal dentin wall reinforcement with Biodentine were carried out for the upper right central incisor. The patient was asymptomatic at 1-, 4-, and 6-month follow-up visits.

Microtensile bond strength of root canal dentin treated with adhesive and fiber-reinforced post systems

Nowadays, demand for esthetic restorations has risen considerably; thus, nonmetal esthetic posts made of either high-strength ceramics or reinforced resins, such as fiber-reinforced resin posts, have become more and more popular. Important characteristics of fiber-reinforced posts involve a modulus of elasticity similar to dentin and their ability to be cemented by an adhesive technique. A total of 36 maxillary incisors were divided into four groups. In this study, four adhesively luted fiber-reinforced (glass fiber, quartz glass fiber, zirconia glass fiber and woven polyethylene fiber ribbon) post systems were used. Post spaces were prepared by employing drills according to the protocol established for each group, and each post was adhesively luted with one of three adhesive systems. Three segments per root apical to the cementoenamel junction (CEJ) were obtained by sectioning the root under distilled water with a carbon spare saw. The samples (total of 108 sections) were 2.0±0.1 mm in thickness and they were stored individually in black film canisters with sterile distilled water. In order to determine the bond strength, the bonding area of each specimen was measured, and specimens were attached to a device to test microtensile strength at a speed of 1 mm/min. The analyses revealed no statistically significant differences between the adhesive systems and fiber-reinforced posts. (P> 0.05). However, the coronal portion of the root dentin had the highest bond strength. Adhesive systems used along with fiber-reinforced resin posts demonstrated reliable bonding.

Efficacy of Fiber Post Bonding To Root Dentin after Different Obturation Techniques and Cementation Timings: In Vitro Study

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this in vitro study was to assess the effect of obturation technique and cementation timings on the bonding of fibre-reinforced posts to the root canal walls.

METHODS

Twenty extracted teeth were randomly allocated to two groups according to the obturation technique and cementation timing. Central incisors with single canals were used after being decoronated. Every extracted tooth of the {vertical compaction group} (VC) group (n = 10) had been obturated using the {E & Q plus obturation system} with posts cemented in the same day; The other (CO) conventional group (n = 10) teeth were obturated using the conventional lateral compaction technique and posts cemented after one week. "SF" Fiber posts were used after bonding and cementation using Rely X ARC resin cement with all the endodontically treated teeth. The push-out test was performed in a universal testing machine. Data were analysed by 2 way analysis of variance with Statistical significance was set to 0.05.

RESULTS

Heat softened gutta percha group showed more push out the bond strength of the bonded posts than the conventional obturation group (p < 0.05). In the middle region, there was no statistical significance between the two groups while there was significance in the coronal and apical thirds.

CONCLUSION

The vertical compaction technique and early cementation improved the bond strength of the resin posts in comparison to the conventional obturation technique with late cementation.

Laser Application to the Root Surface Increases the Bonding Strength of Surface-Treated Prefabricated Glass-Fiber Posts in Teeth with Excessive Substance Loss

BACKGROUND This study examined the effect of roughening of the root surface using an erbium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (Er: YAG) laser on the binding strength of teeth undergoing root canal treatment. MATERIAL AND METHODS Ninety single-rooted teeth were used and assigned randomly to 9 groups (n=10 each). Root canals were prepared using the FlexMaster rotary system. An Er: YAG laser was applied to the root canals in Group 1, with no surface treatment of the glass-fiber post. In Group 2, aluminum oxide particles were applied. In Group 3, the laser was applied to the root canals, with Cojet treatment. Group 4 received laser treatment and Clearfil Ceramic Primer. In Group 5, Clearfil Ceramic Primer silane coupling was performed on post surfaces without laser treatment. In Group 6, hydrofluoric acid (HF) application was followed by Clearfil Ceramic Primer cementing of the glass post surfaces with laser application. In Group 7, HF acid treatment was performed without laser. In Group 8, the laser was applied, followed by sanding of post surfaces using Korox 50, and silane coupling with Clearfil Ceramic Primer. In Group 9, the post surfaces were sanded using Korox 50 with laser application to the root canals. The samples were subjected to a push-out experiment. The data were analyzed using Friedman's test and the Wilcoxon signed-rank test. RESULTS A significant difference in bonding strength was found among the groups (p<0.005). CONCLUSIONS Use of an Er: YAG laser in the root canal may be beneficial prior to bonding of glass posts.

Push-out bond strength of different translucent fiber posts cemented with self-adhesive resin cement

PURPOSE

Evaluate the bond strength of different translucent fiber posts in the cervical, middle, and apical root thirds cemented with self-adhesive resin cement.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Sixty single-rooted teeth were randomly divided into five groups according to the fiber post used: Reforpost (opaque [control]), exacto, white post, radix, and Macro-Lock Illusion X-RO. The roots were subjected to chemomechanical preparation and cemented with self-adhesive resin cement. The teeth were sectioned into slices of the different root thirds and tested for bond strength (push-out). Two-way analysis of variance and Bonferroni test were used to verify statistical differences between groups (P < 0.05).

RESULTS

No significant difference between the root thirds was detected (P > 0.05). However, the performance of the posts demonstrated a significant difference (P < 0.05). RDX had a lower performance in the apical third (P < 0.05). The other fiber posts had the same performance irrespective of the root third evaluated. The predominant failure pattern was adhesive between resin cement and root dentin.

CONCLUSION

In general, the different translucent fiber posts showed the same performance. Yet, translucent fiber posts did not show superior bond strength compared with the opaque fiber post in any of the root thirds evaluated.

Microtensile bond strength between a UDMA fiber post and different resin cements: Effect of pre-surface treatment

During a fiber post cementation, bonding failure often occurs at the junction between the fiber-post and resin-cement. Because this failure requires better characterization, we evaluated if different post surface treatment can affect the bond strength of urethane dimethacrylate (UDMA) fiber-posts with resin-cements. Three groups were created: G1: no treatment/silane; G2: ethyl alcohol (96° GL)/silane; G3: 24% H₂O₂/silane and further divided into four subgroups: I-Unicem/3MESPE; II-BisCem/Bisco; III-Panavia SA/Kuraray and IV-DuoLink/Bisco. Blocks of cured resin cements and posts placed in the center were serially cut into bar-shaped specimens and loaded into a micro tensile testing machine. ANOVA indicated no significant differences among post surface treatments (p>0.05), however, significant within the resin cements (p<0.05) and the interaction of both (p<0.05). The G3/IV showed the highest bond strength values. SEM showed that surface treatments on UDMA fiber posts presented no benefits in terms of surface roughness, thus, should not be performed.

Effect of root canal rinsing protocol on dentin bond strength of two resin cements using three different method of test

Background

Different studies have used different tests to evaluate bond strength of resin cements to root dentin. In this in vitrostudy, three different tests were used to evaluate the bond strength of two resin cements to root dentin using two root dentin irrigation protocols.

Material and Methods

Ninety-six intact single-rooted teeth were selected for this study. Forty-eight teeth, with a root length of 15mm, were randomly divided into two groups and irrigated with normal saline or 2.5% sodium hypochlorite solutions during root canal preparation, respectively. For each 12 specimens from each group, fiber post #1 was bonded using an etch-and-rinse (Duo-Link) and a self-adhesive (BisCem) resin cement, respectively. After incubation, two specimens were prepared for the push-out test from the middle thirds of the roots. In another 24 teeth, after two 1.5-mm sections were prepared from the middle thirds of the prepared roots, sections of the post were bonded in two subgroups with each of the cements mentioned above and the samples were prepared for the pull-out test. For shear test, the crowns of 48 teeth were cut away, the dentin surfaces were prepared, the two irrigation solutions were used, and the resin cements were bonded. Data collected from the three tests were evaluated by ANOVA, post-hoc Tukey and Weibull tests (α=0.05).

Results

There were significant differences in the mean bond strength values between the three bond strength tests (P<0.001). Rinsing protocol and cement type resulted in similar variations in the mean bond strength in all tests (P>0.05).

Conclusions

Under the limitations of the present study, the method of the test used had an effect on the recorded bond strength between the resin cement and root dentin. Cement type and irrigation protocol resulted in similar variations with all the tests. Push-out and shear tests exhibited more coherent results.

Key words:Bond strength, endodontically treated tooth, fiber post, resin cement, sodium hypochlorite.

Comparison of the effect of shear bond strength with silane and other three chemical presurface treatments of a glass fiber-reinforced post on adhesion with a resin-based luting agent: An in vitro study

Background:

Loss of retention has been cited to be the most common cause of the failure of postretained restoration with irreversible consequences when materials with different compositions are in intimate contact at the post/adhesive interface. With this background, a study was conducted to improve the adhesion at the resin phase of fiber posts using silane and other chemical pretreatments.

Materials and Methods:

Hundred glass fiber-reinforced posts were tested with 4 different protocols (n = 25) using silane as a control (Group A) and other three experimental groups, namely, Group B-20% potassium permanganate, Group C-4% hydrofluoric acid, and Group D-10% hydrogen peroxide were pretreated on the postsurface followed by silanization. These specimens were bonded with dual-polymerizing resin-based luting agent, which were then loaded at the crosshead speed of 1 mm/min to record the shear bond strength at the post/adhesive interface. The data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA test for multiple group comparisons and the post hoc Bonferroni test for pairwise comparisons (P < 0.05).

Results:

Group B showed more influence on the shear bond strength when compared to other protocols, respectively (P < 0.001).

Conclusion:

Alone silanization as a surface treatment did not improve the bond strength. Combination of chemical presurface treatments followed by silanization significantly enhanced the bond strength at the post/adhesive interface.

3D micro-CT analysis of void formations and push-out bonding strength of resin cements used for fiber post cementation

PURPOSE

To investigate the void parameters within the resin cements used for fiber post cementation by micro-CT (µCT) and regional push-out bonding strength.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Twenty-one, single and round shaped roots were enlarged with a low-speed drill following by endodontic treatment. The roots were divided into three groups (n=7) and fiber posts were cemented with Maxcem Elite, Multilink N and Superbond C&B resin cements. Specimens were scanned using µCT scanner at resolution of 13.7 µm. The number, area, and volume of voids between dentin and post were evaluated. A method of analysis based on the post segmentation was used, and coronal, middle and apical thirds considered separately. After the µCT analysis, roots were embedded in epoxy resin and sectioned into 2 mm thick slices (63 sections in total). Push-out testing was performed with universal testing device at 0.5 mm/min cross-head speed. Data were analyzed with Kruskal–Wallis and Mann–Whitney U tests (α=.05).

RESULTS

Overall, significant differences between the resin cements and the post level were observed in the void number, area, and volume (P<.05). Super-Bond C&B showed the most void formation (44.86 ± 22.71). Multilink N showed the least void surface (3.51 ± 2.24 mm²) and volume (0.01 ± 0.01 mm³). Regional push-out bond strength of the cements was not different (P>.05).

CONCLUSION

µCT proved to be a powerful non-destructive 3D analysis tool for visualizing the void parameters. Multilink N had the lowest void parameters. When efficiency of all cements was evaluated, direct relationship between the post region and push-out bonding strength was not observed.

Bond strength of fiber posts to the root canal: Effects of anatomic root levels and resin cements

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM

Decementation is one of the most frequent causes of failure in the post-cement system. The bond strength in different parts of the canal may be influenced by technical and anatomic factors.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this in vitro study was to assess the effects of anatomic root levels to reach the canal and different resin cements on the bond strength of fiberglass posts along the canal.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

One hundred thirty-five roots of bovine teeth were endodontically treated, prepared with 15-mm-long post spaces and divided according to the anatomic root level: coronal (with 15-mm post space), middle (with 10-mm post space), and apical (with 5-mm post space). Fiberglass posts were luted with the cements (n=15): conventional resin cement with 3-step etch-and-rinse adhesive system (RelyX ARC/SBMP); self-adhesive resin cement (RelyX U200) and autopolymerizing resin cement with etch-and-rinse adhesive system (C&B/All-Bond 2). After 24 hours, specimens were sectioned and subjected to the push-out test. The maximum extrusion load was recorded (0.5 mm/minute, 200 N). Data were analyzed with analysis of variance (ANOVA) and the Tukey test (α=.05). Failure mode was analyzed by using multinomial logistic regression.

RESULTS

There were no significant effects of resin cements (P>.05). The bond strength at apical third was higher when the canal was reached at the apical level than at the coronal level (P=.022). When each root level was directly reached, the coronal bond strength was lower than apical (P=.001) and middle (P=.021) for all cements.

CONCLUSIONS

When the canal was reached at the coronal, medium, and apical levels, the bond strength of conventional, self-adhesive and autopolymerizing resin cements was lower in the coronal root third.

Effect of Resin Cement Pre-heating on the Push-out Bond Strength of Fiber Post to Root Canal Dentin

Background and aims. Various factors influence the interfacial bond between the fiber posts and root canal dentin. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of pre-warming of resin cement on the push-out bond strength of fiber posts to various segments of root canal dentin.

Materials and methods. In this in vitro study, 40 single-rooted human premolars were decoronated and underwent root canal treatment along with post space preparation. The samples were randomly divided into two groups: In group 1, Panavia F 2.0 cement was used at room temperature; in group 2, the same cement was warmed to 55‒60°C before mixing. After fiber posts were placed and cemented in the root canals, 3 dentin/post sections (coronal, middle and apical) with a thickness of 3 mm were prepared. A universal testing machine was used to measure push-out bond strength in MPa. Data was analyzed using two-factor ANOVA and a post hoc Tukey test at α=0.05.

Results. The mean value of push-out bond strength was high at room temperature, and the differences in the means of push-out bond strength values between the resin cement temperatures and between different root segments in each temperature were significant (P<0.05).

Conclusion. Pre-warming of Panavia F 2.0 resin cement up to 55-60°C reduced push-out bond strength to root canal dentin. In addition, in each temperature group bond strengths decreased from coronal to apical segments.

Evaluation of the resin cement thicknesses and push-out bond strengths of circular and oval fiber posts in oval-shapes canals

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to evaluate whether the push-out bond strength varies between oval and circular fiber posts, and to examine the effect on the resin cement thicknesses around the posts.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Eighteen mandibular premolar roots were separated into two groups for oval and circular fiber posts systems. Post spaces were prepared and fiber posts were luted to the post spaces. Roots were cut horizontally to produce 1-mm-thick specimens. Resin cement thicknesses were determined with a metallographic optical microscope and push-out tests were done.

RESULTS

No significant differences were observed in terms of push-out bond strength between the oval and circular fiber posts (P>.05) The resin cement thicknesses of the oval posts were greater than those of the circular posts group in the coronal, middle and apical specimens (P<.05).

CONCLUSION

In the light of these results, it can be stated that resin cement thickness does not affect the push-out bond strength.

Influence of luting agent translucency on fiber post retention

The aim was to assess the influence of cement translucency on the retentive strength of luted fiber posts. Twenty extracted human premolars were randomly divided into four equal groups, based on the combinations of materials to be tested. Two post types of the same size, shape, and chemical composition, but different light-transmission properties [Translucent post (TP) and Opaque post (OP)] were selected. The two post types were luted using the etch-and-rinse, light-curing adhesive in combination with two shades of the same resin cement of markedly different light-transmitting ability [Transparent shade (TS) and Opaque shade (OS)]. Early post retention was assessed using the thin-slice push-out test. Post type did not significantly influence post retention; however, cement translucency emerged as a relevant factor in intraradicular cementation, with the TS achieving higher push-out strengths. The between-factor interaction was also statistically significant; specifically, OP-OS yielded significantly lower retentive strengths than all the other groups. Post translucency did not influence post retention, provided that a highly translucent cement was utilized for luting.

Adhesion between glass fiber posts and resin cement: evaluation of bond strength after various pre-treatments

PURPOSE

To evaluate surface roughness and bond strength of glass fiber posts to a resin cement after various surface treatments.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Sixty individually formed glass fiber posts with a diameter of 1.5 mm and a length of 20 mm were used for this study. They were randomly assigned to six groups of pre-treatment (n = 10/group): Group C, untreated (control); Group SB, sandblasted; Group SC, silica coated; Group HF, hydrofluoric acid-etched; Group N, Nd:YAG laser irradiated; Group E, Er:YAG laser irradiated. Surface roughness of the posts was measured before and after pre-treatment. The posts were then bonded to resin cement and tensile bond strengths were determined in a universal testing machine. For statistical analysis, two-way ANOVA and post-hoc comparison tests (α = 0.05) were performed.

RESULTS

The highest bond strength value was observed in group HF, followed by group SC. There was a statistically significant difference in bond strength between group C and groups HF, SC and E (p < 0.001, p = 0.002 and p = 0.041, respectively). Posts of group SB and group N showed the highest surface roughness.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings of the present study reveal that hydrofluoric acid-etching, silica coating and Er:YAG laser irradiation provided a significant increase in bond strength between glass fiber posts and resin cement.

Influence of light-exposure methods and depths of cavity on the microhardness of dual-cured core build-up resin composites

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the Knoop hardness number (KHN) of dual-cured core build-up resin composites (DCBRCs) at 6 depths of cavity after 3 post-irradiation times by 4 light-exposure methods.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Five specimens each of DCBRCs (Clearfil DC Core Plus [DCP] and Unifil Core EM [UCE]) were filled in acrylic resin blocks with a semi-cylindrical cavity and light-cured using an LED light unit (power density: 1,000 mW/cm2)at the top surface by irradiation for 20 seconds (20 s), 40 seconds (40 s), bonding agent plus 20 seconds (B+20 s), or 40 seconds plus light irradiation of both sides of each acrylic resin block for 40 seconds each (120 s). KHN was measured at depths of 0.5, 2.0, 4.0, 6.0, 8.0, and 10.0 mm at 0.5 hours, 24 hours, and 7 days post-irradiation. Statistical analysis was performed using repeated measures ANOVA and Tukey's compromise post-hoc test with a significance level of p<0.05.

RESULTS

For both DCBRCs, at 0.5 hours post-irradiation, the 20 s and 40 s methods showed the highest KHN at depth of 0.5 mm. The 40 s method showed significantly higher KHN than the 20 s method at all depths of cavity and post-irradiation times, except UCE at depth of 0.5 mm (p<0.05). The 120 s method did not result in significantly different KHN at all depths of cavity and post-irradiation times (p>0.05). In DCP, and not UCE, at 24 hours and 7 days post-irradiation, the B+20 s method showed significantly higher KHN at all depths of cavity, except the depth of 0.5 mm (p<0.05).

CONCLUSION

KHN depends on the light-exposure method, use of bonding agent, depth of cavity, post-irradiation time, and material brand. Based on the microhardness behavior, DCBRCs are preferably prepared by the effective exposure method, when used for a greater depth of cavity.

Qualitative evaluation of scanning electron microscopy methods in a study of the resin cement/dentine adhesive interface

Sample preparation and imaging techniques for scanning electron microscopy (SEM) of dehydrated dental samples can hinder the structural analyses. This study qualitatively evaluated images obtained with two different protocols of SEM preparation and analysis to assess the dentine adhesive interface. The crown and root dentine of 12 bovine incisors were subjected to cementation with the resin cement RelyX U100 or RelyX ARC/SBMP (n = 6). After storage for 7 days in a moist environment at 37 ± 1°C, the dentine samples were dehydrated in an ascending alcohol series, and three specimens from each group were coated with gold or carbon and examined in a high-vacuum (JEOL JSM-6360LV, 10 kV) or low-vacuum (FEI Quanta 200F, 15-30 kV) microscope. Images were obtained at magnifications between 50 and 2,000×, but with different working distances. The use of high vacuum for carbon and gold coating and SEM visualization led to cracks in the samples. A small number of cracks can be described in the specimens subjected to the low-vacuum technique. The protocol for SEM imaging in low vacuum was considered more appropriate for preservation of the integrity of the evaluated structures.

Microhardness of dual-polymerizing resin cements and foundation composite resins for luting fiber-reinforced posts

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM

The optimal luting material for fiber-reinforced posts to ensure the longevity of foundation restorations remains undetermined.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the suitability of 3 dual-polymerizing resin cements and 2 dual-polymerizing foundation composite resins for luting fiber-reinforced posts by assessing their Knoop hardness number.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Five specimens of dual-polymerizing resin cements (SA Cement Automix, G-Cem LincAce, and Panavia F2.0) and 5 specimens of dual-polymerizing foundation composite resins (Clearfil DC Core Plus and Unifil Core EM) were polymerized from the top by irradiation for 40 seconds. Knoop hardness numbers were measured at depths of 0.5, 2.0, 4.0, 6.0, 8.0, and 10.0 mm at 0.5 hours and 7 days after irradiation. Data were statistically analyzed by repeated measures ANOVA, 1-way ANOVA, and the Tukey compromise post hoc test (α=.05).

RESULTS

At both times after irradiation, the 5 resins materials showed the highest Knoop hardness numbers at the 0.5-mm depth. At 7 days after irradiation, the Knoop hardness numbers of the resin materials did not differ significantly between the 8.0-mm and 10.0-mm depths (P>.05). For all materials, the Knoop hardness numbers at 7 days after irradiation were significantly higher than those at 0.5 hours after irradiation at all depths (P<.05). At 7 days after irradiation, the Knoop hardness numbers of the 5 resin materials were found to decrease in the following order: DC Core Plus, Unifil Core EM, Panavia F2.0, SA Cement Automix, and G-Cem LincAce (P<.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The Knoop hardness number depends on the depth of the cavity, the length of time after irradiation, and the material brand. Although the Knoop hardness numbers of the 2 dual-polymerizing foundation composite resins were higher than those of the 3 dual-polymerizing resin cements, notable differences were seen among the 5 materials at all depths and at both times after irradiation.

The effect of light-curing access and different resin cements on apical bond strength of fiber posts

PURPOSE

This study evaluated the effect of light-curing access on the bond strength of fiber glass posts to the apical area of bovine roots using self-adhesive cement or dual-cured cement with an etch-and-rinse adhesive system.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The root canals of 60 bovine teeth were endodontically treated and filled. A 15-mm-length post space was prepared and roots were randomly divided into three groups, simulating the levels of light-curing access: coronal (C), with 15-mm post space; middle (M), in which the coronal thirds of roots were cut out, leaving a 10-mm post space; and apical (A), in which the coronal and middle thirds of roots were cut out, leaving a 5-mm post space. Fiber glass posts (Reforpost # 3, Angelus) were cemented with RelyX U100 (3M ESPE) or RelyX ARC/Scotchbond Multi Purpose Plus (SBMP) (3M ESPE) (n=10) and light-cured. After 24 hours, the apical thirds of roots were sectioned perpendicularly to the long axis and submitted to a push-out test (0.5 mm/min, 200 N). The Kruskal-Wallis test compared the three levels of light-curing access, and the Mann-Whitney test compared the cements.

RESULTS

The bond strength was significantly higher in the groups C (p=0.028) and M (p=0.016) when U100 was used, whereas it was similar for both cements in group A. The bond strengths of posts cemented with ARC/SBMP were significantly higher in group A compared to group C (p=0.031).

CONCLUSIONS

The type of cement used and the light-curing access level influenced the bond strength between glass fiber posts and root canals. The bond strength of the RelyX ARC/SBMP cement proved to be more dependent on photoactivation than was the RelyX U100 cement. The light-curing access level did not influence the apical bond strength of RelyX U100.

Comparative evaluation of effects of different surface treatment methods on bond strength between fiber post and composite core

PURPOSE

Debonding of a composite resin core of the fiber post often occurs at the interface between these two materials. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of different surface treatment methods on bond strength between fiber posts and composite core.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Sixty-four fiber posts were picked in two groups (Hetco and Exacto). Each group was further divided into four subgroups using different surface treatments: 1) silanization; 2) sandblasting; 3) Treatment with 24% H₂O₂, and 4) no treatment (control group). A cylindrical plexiglass matrix was placed around the post and filled with the core resin composite. Specimens were stored in 5000 thermal cycles between 5℃ and 55℃. Tensile bond strength (TBS) test and evaluation using stereomicroscope were performed on the specimen and the data were analyzed using two-way ANOVA, Post Hoc Scheffe tests and Fisher's Exact Test (α=.05).

RESULTS

There was a significant difference between the effect of different surface treatments on TBS (P<.001) but different brands of post (P=.743) and interaction between the brand of post and surface treatment (P=.922) had no significant effect on TBS. Both silanization and sandblasting improved the bonding strength of fiber posts to composite resin core, but there were not any significant differences between these groups and control group.

CONCLUSION

There was not any significant difference between two brands of fiber posts that had been used in this study. Although silanization and sandblasting can improve the TBS, there was not any significant differences between surface treatments used.

Effect of light-activation with different light-curing units and time intervals on resin cement bond strength to intraradicular dentin

The aim of this study was to assess the bond strength of a resin cement to intraradicular dentin varying the light-curing unit and the moment at which the light was applied. Post spaces of endodontically treated canines were prepared. The roots were distributed into 6 groups (n=10) according to the light-curing unit and the moment of light exposure: I) Quartz tungsten halogen-600 mW/cm² (QTH) + immediate light activation (t0); II) QTH + light activation after 10 min (t10); III) Light-emitting diodes (LED)-800 mW/cm² (LED-800)+ t0; IV) LED-800 + t10; V) LED-1,500 mW/cm² (LED-1500)+ t0; VI) LED-1500 + t10. After post cementation, slices from coronal, middle and apical post/root regions were submitted to the push-out test and failure evaluation. It was verified that LED-800 (4.40 ± 3.00 MPa) and LED-1500 (4.67 ± 3.04 MPa) provided bond strength statistically superior to QTH (3.13 ± 1.76 MPa) (p<0.05), and did not differ from each other (p>0.05). There was no significant difference between t0 and t10 (p>0.05). Coronal post/root region (4.75 ± 3.10 MPa) presented significantly higher bond strength than the apical (3.32 ± 2.30 MPa) (p<0.05) and middle regions (4.14 ± 2.99 MPa) showed intermediate values. Adhesive failures were predominant when using QTH. Adhesive and mixed failures occurred more frequently in the apical region. Higher adhesion of the resin cement to intraradicular dentin was observed in the coronal region with LED light-activation, regardless of the moment of light exposure.

The Influence of Time and Cement Type on Push-Out Bond Strength of Fiber Posts to Root Dentin

A self-adhesive resin cement can provide a significantly stronger bond than a three-step etch-and-rinse adhesive and resin cement when used to lute fiber posts.

Effects of Auxiliary Fiber Posts on Endodontically Treated Teeth With Flared Canals

Macro-Lock post combined with auxiliary fiber posts could increase the fracture resistance of endodontically treated roots with over-flared canals. However, an effect of the auxiliary fibers on retention strength was not observed.

Fracture load of tooth restored with fiber post and experimental short fiber composite

Purpose:

This study evaluated the load bearing capacity of anatomically designed canines restored with FRC posts and experimental short fiber composite resin (FC). The effect of using three different types of tooth preparation and woven net on the fracture load was also investigated. Further aim was to evaluate the failure mode of each restoration.

Material and methods:

80 maxillary frasaco-canines were divided into 10 groups (n=8). The anatomic crowns were cut perpendicular at CEJ of the tooth. Group 1 was composed of teeth with flattened surface. Groups 2, 3 & 4 were prepared of teeth with 2 mm ferrule. In the third group, everStick Net was applied above the ferrule. Group 5 was composed of teeth with large box type preparation. The root canals were enlarged, sandblasted and then surface treated with Stick resin for 5 min. Two types of FRC root canal posts were used. The crowns were prepared either with composite resin or with FC. A static load until failure was applied to the crowns at a 45 degrees angle. Failure modes were visually examined.

Results:

ANOVA revealed that use of FRC-post and tooth preparation (p<0.001) had significant effect on fracture load of FRC-crown. The crowns made from only FC gave comparable fracture load to groups with FRC-post. No significant difference was found in load-bearing capacity between restorations reinforced with FRC net-substructure and those without (p>0.001). Chi-square test revealed that both, crown design and existence of FRC-post effected significantly fracture types (p<0.001).

Conclusion:

FC demonstrated similar load bearing capacity with restorations reinforced with FRC post. The presence of ferrule around the tooth increased the load bearing capacity significantly.

Abbreviations:

EET – endodontically treated teeth; FRC – fiber-reinforced composite; semi-IPN – semi-interpenetrating network; CEJ – cementoenamel junction; FC – experimental short fiber composite; SiC – silicon carbide abrasive paper; N – newton; FEM – finite element method.

Effect of root-canal sealer on the bond strength of fiberglass post to root dentin

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effects of different root-canal sealers on the bond strength of a fiberglass post cemented with self-adhesive resin cements.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Forty extracted maxillary single-rooted canines were prepared with the crown-down technique and randomly divided into four groups according to the tested sealer: Group 1: control group, gutta-percha cone only (no sealer); Group 2: EndoREZ; Group 3: Sealapex; Group 4: Endofill. The roots were obturated with the gutta-percha cone using the cold lateral compaction technique. Fiberglass posts were cemented into the prepared post spaces with the self-adhesive cement RelyX Unicem. Bonded specimens were sectioned into 1-mm thick slabs and a push-out test was performed in a universal machine.

RESULTS

Data were subjected to ANOVA and Tukey tests (α = 0.05). No significant difference was detected between Groups 1-3 (P > 0.05). Group 4 showed a lower bond strength than the other sealers (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Endofill negatively interfered with the bond to root dentine; however, EndoRez and Sealapex did not affect the bond strength of the fiberglass post cemented with self-adhesive resin cements.

Light-transmitting ability of marketed fiber posts

If proper polymerization of resin-based cements is to be achieved for fiber post luting, light activation is needed for photo-curing agents, recommended for self-curing materials. The study was aimed at verifying whether the light-transmitting ability of marketed fiber posts reflected the manufacturers' claims for translucency. Ten posts per type were light-irradiated with a curing unit. Spectrophotometric measurements of the amount of photons reaching different post levels were taken. Data were statistically analyzed (linear regression, two-way ANOVA; alpha = 0.05). No light transmission was recorded through FibreKleer and Tech21 X-OP. For the other posts, light intensity decreased from coronal to apical and rose again at the apical tip, where it peaked for GC Fiber Post, Macrolock Illusion Post, and Radix Fiber Post. Light transmission was significantly higher at the coronal level. A statistically significant difference in translucency was found for Dentin Post X and FRC Postec Plus in comparison with Reforpost, FibreKleer, Tech21 X-OP, and Composipost.

Influence of Oversized Dowel Space Preparation on the Bond Strengths of FRC Posts

Build-up composites could not fulfil the expectations to bond an FRC post into wide dowel spaces with the same bond strength as a precisely fitting FRC post.

Evaluation of Light Transmission Through Translucent and Opaque Posts

The resin cement polymerization inside the root is decreased, because transmission of light in the apical direction is difficult. This study suggests that the use of translucent posts presents advantages in relation to the opaque posts, however, both do not allow polymerization in the apical region.