Fiber-reinforced resin coating for endocrown preparations: a technical report

Application of one-piece endodontic crowns fabricated with CAD-CAM system to molars

Computer-aided design-computer-aided manufacturing (CAD-CAM) systems have been widely used as a fabrication method for restorations because of their high efficiency and accuracy, which significantly reduces fabrication time. However, molars with insufficient clearance or short clinical crown lengths require retention holes or grooves on the preparation, making it difficult to replicate the shapes with the CAM milling system. In these cases, restorations using the lost-wax method are selected. This article focuses on one-piece endodontic crowns (endocrowns) fabricated with a CAD-CAM system (CAD-CAM endocrowns), in which their posts and crowns are integrated. Articles from July 2012 to August 2023 were searched in PubMed with the keyword "endocrown". This review discusses the application of CAD-CAM endocrowns to molars from the viewpoint of model experiment (fracture resistance, adaptation) and clinical research. This technique, which allows margins and internal gaps to be set within the clinically acceptable range, is reported to be an effective way of restoring molars with high survival rates in clinical research.

Construction of metal endocrown for a short clinical second molar crown

This case highlights where a metal endocrown was used as a novel technique. The metal endocrown showed promising outcomes during the 5-year follow-up, utilizing a resin base to preserve tissue and act as a stress breaker. This approach was used to preserve the tooth and avoid extraction or periodontal surgery.

Exploring the influence of placing bi-directional E-glass fibers as protective layer under a CAD-CAM resin composite on the fracture pattern

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the influence of the presence and position of bidirectional E-glass fibers under a CAD-CAM resin composite on the fracture pattern evaluated both after quasi-static mechanical loading and after fatigue.

METHODS

Rectangular specimens (10 mm-long, 5 mm-large and 4.2 mm-thick) were prepared and divided into four groups (n = 30/group). The control group (C-Group) consisted of a 4.2 mm-thick layer of monolithic CAD/CAM resin composite resin (Cerasmart, GC). In the 3 other groups including the placement of a fiber layer (F-Groups), the CAD/CAM resin composite layer was reduced to 3-, 2- and 1-mm thickness (F3-, F2- and F1-Groups, respectively). Two bonded layers of bidirectional E-glass FRC (Dentapreg, ADM A.S.) were bonded underneath and a light-curable resin composite base (Gaenial Posterior, GC) was then added to reach a total thickness of 4.2 mm for all samples. In each group, half of the specimens (n = 15) were submitted to quasi-static mechanical loading to failure in a universal testing machine. The other half (n = 15) was subjected to cyclic isometric stepwise loading until failure or completion of 105000 cycles (5000 cycles at 500 N, followed by five stages of 20000 cycles at 750 N, 1000 N, 1250 N, 1500 N, and 1750 N). The data were analyzed by Weibull statistics for quasi-static loading, and by the Kaplan-Meier product limit estimation procedure after fatigue. All fractured specimens were studied using light and electron microscopy techniques, and the types of fracture were determined.

RESULTS

For quasi-static mechanical loading, significant differences were observed for Weibull modulus and characteristic strength between groups, with values ranging from 10.8 to 22.4 for the former and from 2336.6 to 2974.7 for the latter. Also, survival after stepwise fatigue revealed statistically significant differences between groups (p < 0.05), the lowest values of cycles before failure being observed for F1-Group - Median = 61223 (50415; 65446) - as compared to the other groups - C-Group: Median = 89005 (86189; 98195); F3-Group: Median = 85198 (77279; 87860); F2-Group: Median = 89306 (87454; 97024). Both in quasi-static loading and after fatigue, the observation of fracture modes revealed major differences. While all fractures were vertical (split) in C-Group, the majority of the specimens in F-Groups presented some degree of horizontal deflection of the crack. In all deviated fractures, fractographic analysis confirmed a toughening effect of the fiber layer.

SIGNIFICANCE

The present in vitro work tends to show that the fracture pattern of CAD-CAM resin composites is favorably affected by the presence and position of an underlying bidirectional E-glass fiber layer. The placement of E-glass fibers under a CAD-CAM resin composite may therefore represent an interesting strategy to reduce the risk of catastrophic restoration failure, which could be integrated in the development of the new generation of indirect materials, possibly in 3D-printing approaches.

Effect of various preparation designs on pull-out bond strength of endocrown

Background

The endocrown is described as monobloc ceramic component. The pull-out bond strength acts as a real-life scenario of failure that occurs in endocrown. The different preparation designs have been included to assess the type of preparation that resists the least failure.

Aim

To evaluate the effect of three different types of preparation designs on the pull-out bond strength (PBS) of computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) monolithic endocrowns.

Methods and Materials

Thirty extracted mandibular first molars were used for this study. Root canal treatment was done. Samples were divided into three groups of 10 samples each. Group A consists of traditional endocrown preparation with a butt joint preparation. The group B consists of a modified preparation with 50-60 degree inward slope. The group C consists of preparation with a 50-60 degree outward slope. Endocrowns were fabricated using CAD/CAM lithium disilicate glass-ceramics. The endocrowns were adhesively bonded to the respective preparations. Pull-out bond strength was calculated using the universal testing machine at a crosshead speed of 1 mm/min.

Statistical Analysis

The results were statistically evaluated by one-way ANOVA and Tukey's post hoc analysis.

Results

Group B had higher pull-out bond strength compared to the other two types of preparation designs and showed a statistically significant value with a mean significant difference at 0.05 level (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

The 50-60 degree inward bevel in endocrown preparation increased the pull-out bond strength in lithium disilicate endocrowns.

The practicability of different preparation of mandibular molar restored by modified endocrown with intracanal extension: Computational analysis using finite element models

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Post-core-crown (PCC) and endocrown are two common restorative methods for severely damaged molars, but exhibit disadvantages. This study aimed to explore the practicability of modified endocrown with a 2 mm intracanal extension (MED) to restore defective teeth using finite element analysis (FEA).

METHODS

Five groups of numerical models of mandibular molars restored by three MEDs, a PCC, and a routine endocrown after root canal treatment were devised by FEA software. We constructed 4 mm, 3 mm, and 2 mm thickness of MED restorations to restore mandibular molars that were prepared to 1 mm, 2 mm, and 3 mm from the cemento-enamel junction (CEJ). Furthermore, PCC and routine endocrown were used to compare the stress distribution with MED. Lithium disilicate glass-ceramics (EMAX) and resin nanoceramics (LU) were considered restorative materials, and a vertical load of 600 N and an oblique load of 200 N were applied to the restorations.

RESULTS

In three MEDs by LU, 2 mm thickness of restoration generated the highest stress on prepared teeth, while the thickness of EMAX did not significantly influence the stress value. MED by LU generated higher stress around the CEJ, and reduced the stress on the middle and lower root compared to MEDs by EMAX, PCC by EMAX, and PCC by LU. MED by EMAX caused lower stress around the CEJ, and generated higher stress in the chamber walls after extended root canals compared with MED by LU, endocrowns by LU, and endocrowns by EMAX. There was an evident stress concentration at the last but one layer, which was a thin area of the tooth root in all restorative models.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of modified endocrown may be considered an effective restorative method to restore defective mandibular molar, but suitable restorative material must be selected based on the tooth preparation method and deficiencies in the tooth structure.

Effect of surface treatment, ferrule height, and luting agent type on pull-out bond strength of monolithic zirconia endocrowns

PURPOSE

To evaluate the effect of different surface treatments, ferrule heights, and luting agents on the pull-out bond strength (PBS) of computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD-CAM) monolithic endocrowns.

METHODS

After endodontic treatment and preparation for two endocrown designs (ferrule height 0 mm or 2 mm), CAD-CAM monolithic zirconia endocrowns were fabricated for 80 mandibular molars. Each endocrown design group was then divided on the basis of surface treatment into two groups: half were air-abraded and half were air-abraded/laser-irradiated. Then, all treated groups were further divided into two subgroups (n = 10) and cemented to teeth with either a 10-methacryloyloxydecyl dihydrogen phosphate (MDP)-containing resin luting agent (Panavia SA) or a combination of MDP-containing primer and MDP-free resin luting agent (Monobond Plus/Multilink Automix). PBS was measured with a universal test machine after simulated chewing and thermocycling. Three-way ANOVA and the post-hoc Bonferroni test were used for statistical analysis.

RESULTS

PBS was significantly associated with type of surface treatment, type of luting agent, and ferrule height. Air-abraded/laser-irradiated endocrowns with a 2-mm ferrule that were cemented with Monobond Plus/Multilink Automix had the highest PBS (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Surface treatment with air abrasion/laser irradiation, presence of a ferrule, and priming with an MDP-containing primer increased the PBS of monolithic zirconia endocrowns.

Crack propagation and toughening mechanism of bilayered short-fiber reinforced resin composite structure -Evaluation up to six months storage in water

Clinically relevant parameters, such as stress intensity factor of bilayered resin composite structure with short fiber base and its stability over time, has yet to be investigated. This study investigated the stress intensity factor of pre-cracked bilayered specimens composed of short fiber resin composite base (SFC) and particulate filler resin composite (PFC) as veneering layer, with a crack located in the PFC layer, 0.5 mm away from the PFC-SFC interface. Monolayered specimens served as controls. All specimens were stored in water at 37°C either for 1 week, 1 month or 6 months before testing. Two-way ANOVA (p=0.05) was used to determine the differences among the groups. Results indicated that SFC base improve the brittleness of the PFC. The type of short fibers affected the crack propagation; fiber bridging in millimeter-scale SFC was the main crack arresting mechanism, whereas fiber pulling observed in micrometer-scale SFC mainly deviated the crack path.

Influence of fiber insertion and different material type on stress distribution in endocrown restorations: a 3D-FEA study

The study aimed to evaluate the effects of fibers insertion and restorative material type on the stress distribution in endocrowns with finite element analysis. Five 3D models of first mandibular molars were created and restored as follows: (1) IN: intact tooth, (2) IPS-E: tooth restored with lithium disilicat ceramic endocrowns, (3) C-E: tooth restored with composite endocrowns, (4) IPS-E + F: lithium disilicate ceramic endocrowns + fiber, (5) C-E + F: composite endocrowns + fiber. Vertical masticatory load was imitated with finite element analysis. The equivalent stress of von Mises failure criterion (mvM) was calculated. The maximum mvM stress, enamel/crown, dentin and cement were compared among models and strength of the materials. Endocrowns presented a lower mvM stress level than intact tooth. In IPS-E, the mvM stress values in the crown and dentin were higher than C-E, while the mvM stress values in cement were higher in C-E group. Fibers insertion did not affect the stress level of IPS-E and C-E groups. In IPS model, fiber showed more stress absorption than C-E. The restorative material type changed the stress distribution of endocrown restorations. The fiber application did not affect the stress distribution in either endocrown group. But, more stress absorption was observed in fiber under IPS-E than C-E.

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.

Retention of different CAD/CAM endocrowns bonded to severely damaged endodontically treated teeth: An in vitro study

Aim:

Assess the retention of endocrowns fabricated of different CAD/CAM materials.

Settings and Design:

In vitro - comparative study.

Material and Methods:

Root canal treated mandibular first molars were prepared in a standardized method. Standardized endocrowns were manufactured using four CAD-CAM blocks: resin infiltrated ceramic (Vita Enamic), partially stabilized tetragonal zirconia (Katana), lithium disilicate ceramic (IPS e.max CAD), and polyether-ether-keton (PEEK, BioHPP). After proper surface treatment, the restorations were cemented using a resin cement (Panavia F2.0) and were connected to a special attachment unit and secured to a universal testing machine. The amount of axial load required to dislodge the restoration from the tooth structure was measured (n = 12, α = 0.05). Failures were classified as adhesive debonding from the tooth structure without damaging the supporting tooth structure and cohesive fracture of the supporting tooth structure

Statistical Analysis Used:

One-way analysis of variance,Tukey's post hoc test.

Results:

The retention of Vita Enamic (61 ± 11 N) and IPS e.max CAD (58 ± 9 N) was significantly higher (F = 123, P < 0.01) than Katana (33 ± 13) and Peek restorations (23 ± 11). Vita Enamic and IPS e.max CAD were associated with fractured tooth segments during debonding while Katana and PEEK specimens were adhesively debonded from the remaining tooth structure.

Conclusions:

Within the limitations of this study, using lithium disilicate ceramics and resin infiltrated ceramics as restorative materials to fabricate endocrowns to restore severely damaged endodontically treated teeth, recorded significantly higher retention values. Meanwhile, using yttrium partially stabilized zirconia and polyether ether ketones for the same purpose recorded a favorable mode failure which avoided the possibility of tooth fracture.

Immediate Dentin Sealing: A Literature Review

Purpose

The immediate application of a dentin-bonding agent after tooth preparation and before impression-taking (immediate dentin sealing [IDS]) has been suggested to provide several advantages concerning bacterial microleakage, hypersensitivity, and bonding quality. We reviewed the literature and clarified certain aspects related to each step of IDS application.

Materials and Methods

The search strategy comprised an electronic research in MEDLINE, Cochrane, Ovid and Scopus for studies published from January 1990 to December 2020 regarding the IDS technique and including both in vitro and clinical studies.

Results

After exclusion of irrelevant or duplicate articles, 88 articles focusing on aspects of the IDS technique were assessed. IDS seems to be advantageous with regard to bond strength, gap formation, bacterial microleakage, and dentin hypersensitivity. However, issues arising from interaction with impression materials, the provisional phase, and conditioning methods before cementation require further investigation.

Conclusion

There are no documented reasons preventing clinicians applying IDS in their everyday practice. On the contrary, the presented technique seems to be beneficial in certain aspects regarding indirect restorations.

The influence of FRC base and bonded CAD/CAM resin composite endocrowns on fatigue behavior of cracked endodontically-treated molars

Cracked endodontically treated molars (ETMs) are commonly treated with full crowns. Less invasive techniques could include fiber-reinforced composite (FRC) base and adhesively bonded endocrowns. The purpose of this study was to assess the fatigue resistance of ETMs restored with CAD/CAM resin composite endocrowns and reinforced with different FRC bases. Cracks were simulated in fifty mandibular molars by cutting the teeth longitudinally and reassembling the two parts. After performing endodontic treatments and preparing cavities, teeth were restored in one of the following methods (n = 10). In Group 1, cavity floors were lined with 0.5 mm of flowable composite (Universal Injectable; GUI, shade A2). In Groups 2 and 3, the cavity floors were covered with one and three layers of FRC-net (ES Net) respectively, whereas in Groups 4 and 5 with 1 mm and 2 mm of flowable FRC-resin (EverX Flow Dentin; EXFD) respectively. Endocrowns (Cerasmart 270; CE, A2 HT) with 5 mm thickness were adhesively luted with preheated composite and all specimens were subjected to cyclic loading in water at 5 Hz, starting with a load of 600 N (5000 cycles), followed by stages of 1000, 1300, 1600, 1900, 2200 and 2500 at a maximum of 20 000 cycles each. Results were analyzed using Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and the Log-Rank test (p = 0.05). The fatigue failure load of ES Net applied in three layers (1617 N ± 371) or in one layer (1499 N ± 306), as well as EXFD applied in 2 mm (1496 N ± 264) or in 1 mm (1434 N ± 372) did not differ significantly (p > 0.05). Control teeth fractured at 1255 N ± 350 (p > 0.05). In the fiber-reinforced groups, restorable fractures were observed in 50%-80%, with only 30% deemed restorable in the control group. The fractures originated mainly at the occlusal contact points and the main crack propagated in the corono-apical direction. No crack origin (primary or secondary) starting from the artificial pre-existing crack was observed in fractured specimens. FRC bases did not improve the fatigue resistance of cracked ETMs, but favorably influenced the failure mode.

Evaluation of two CAD/CAM materials for Nayyar core and post-retained restorations: Three dimensional stress analysis

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study is to assess the stress distribution of a nanoceramic resin CAD/CAM material, Lava Ultimate (LU) and a polymer-infiltrated hybrid ceramic CAD/CAM material, Vita Enamic (VE) for enamel replacement for Nayyar core (corono-radicular dowel and core) or post-retained restoration designs of a maxillary first premolar tooth with missing palatal cusp.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A three dimensional finite element (FE) modelof maxillary first premolar with two roots was modeled. A mesial-occlusal-distal-palatal (MODP) cavity was designed with cavity floor above cemento-enamel junction and including buccal cuspal reduction. Restoration designs consisted of Nayyar core restoration (NCR) and post-retained restoration (PRR) with a glass fiber post. Vita Enamic (VE), Lava Ultimate (LU) were used for enamel and everX Posterior was used for dentin replacement. Vertical occlusal load (100 N) was applied on a spherical solid rigid material simulating the food stuff. Von Mises (VM) and maximum principle stress values were evaluated separately for the remaining enamel, remaining dentin and restorative material in megapascal (MPa).

RESULTS

The analysis of both VM and maximum principle stress values revealed that the most intense stress accumulation was in the cervical region of enamel for both designs. For VM, similar stress values were observed only in dentin. Stress analysis of restorative materials showed that everX Posterior had the highest stress accumulation.

CONCLUSIONS

The comparison of the two techniques showed that PRR had better stress distribution than NCR. NCR or PRR with LU or VE exhibited similar VM stress accumulation in dentin. Maximum principle stress analyses showed that PRR with LU transmitted the least stress to enamel and dentin indicating that when LU is the material of choice, post-retained restoration would be a satisfactory design. VM stress values of enamel revealed that VE absorbed the stress in itself and transferred less stress to dentin. This could point out that for the restoration of maxillary first premolar tooth with missing palatal cusp, VE may be a suitable material for NCR and PRR restoration techniques.

HIGHLIGHTS

When fiber reinforced composite is used as dentin replacement in combination with VE as enamel replacement; any technique; PRR or NCR, may be preferred in the restoration of MODP cavities of endodontically treated maxillary premolars. The clinical relevance has to be further studied in-vivo.

Marginal gap of monolithic zirconia endocrowns fabricated by using digital scanning and conventional impressions

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM

The digital scanning technique has been introduced as an alternative to the conventional impression technique for the fabrication of fixed restorations. However, adequate information is not available on the efficacy of digital scanning for the fabrication of endocrowns regarding their marginal accuracy.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this in vitro study was to compare the marginal gap of endocrowns fabricated by computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD-CAM) technology and digital scanning and conventional impression techniques.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

An endodontically treated mandibular molar tooth was prepared to receive an endocrown. The impressions were made by using the conventional impression technique with polyvinyl siloxane material (n=11) and digital scanning by using an intraoral scanner (n=11). Endocrowns were fabricated from monolithic zirconia blocks by using a milling machine. Each restoration was seated on the prepared tooth, and the marginal gap was measured by using a video measuring machine at 8 points under magnification. The mean marginal gap for each restoration and the overall mean marginal gap for each group were calculated. Data were analyzed by using a statistical software program. Marginal gaps were compared with the Mann-Whitney U test (α=.05).

RESULTS

The mean marginal gap was 74 μm for the conventional impression group. A similar mean marginal gap (70 μm) was found for the digital scanning group. No statistically significant difference was found between the groups (P=.375).

CONCLUSIONS

The digital scanning technique and the conventional impression technique yielded crowns with comparable marginal adaptation.

Effect of different restorative crown design and materials on stress distribution in endodontically treated molars: a finite element analysis study

Background

The purposes of this simulation study were to evaluate the stresses in the roots of endodontically treated molars with extensive coronal tissue loss which were restored by endocrowns (all-in-one core and crown) and traditional crowns with post-cores, during masticatory simulation using finite element analysis.

Methods

A mesio-distal cross-section of a lower right first molar was digitized and used to create 2-dimensional models of the teeth and supporting tissue; different crown designs, viz., endocrown with 2 mm occlusal clearance, endocrown with 4 mm occlusal clearance and post-core crown; different crown materials, viz., zirconia (Zr) and lithia-disilicate reinforced glass ceramic (LDRGC), and different post and core materials, viz., glass fiber (GF), stainless steel (SS) and metal cast (MC). An axial load of 600 N was applied to the central fossa of occlusal surface.

Results

The stress distributions were similar between Zr and LDRGC for periodontal ligament and alveolar bone. The root canal inner wall maximum principal stresses of SS post (70.8 MPa) and MC post (71.4 MPa) were higher than that of GF post (36.0 MPa) and endocrown (2.4 MPa).

Conclusion

The endocrowns reduced stress concentration for the root canal inner wall in comparison with the conventional post-core crown. Molars restored with endocrowns are less prone to root fracture than those with posts.

Survival and success of endocrowns: A systematic review and meta-analysis

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM

Endocrowns are a monoblock type of restoration that use the pulp chamber and remaining coronal tooth structure as a means of retention. However, data on their long-term survival and success rates as compared with conventional crowns are lacking.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to collate published work on endocrowns to assist clinicians in making decisions on when and whether they are an appropriate restorative option with a predictable outcome for extensively damaged endodontically treated teeth.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Databases such as PubMed (MEDLINE), Scopus, EMBASE, Cochrane library, and Google Scholar were searched up to June 2019 for clinical and in vitro studies on endocrown survival and success rates. For the meta-analysis, endocrown and conventional crown survival and success rates were compared, and the pooled effects were presented as relative risks and 95% confidence intervals using a random effects model.

RESULTS

Ten studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria (3 clinical and 7 in vitro) and were included in the systematic review. The meta-analysis of the clinical studies showed an estimated overall 5-year survival rate of 91.4% for endocrowns and 98.3% for conventional crowns. The estimated overall 5-year success rates were 77.7% for endocrowns and 94% for conventional crowns. There were no significant differences in overall survival or success estimates between the assessed restorations (P>.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Additional well-designed clinical studies with long-term assessment are needed; however, endocrowns appear to be a promising conservative restorative option with acceptable long-term survival for endodontically treated posterior teeth in selected patients.

Mechanical behavior of endocrowns fabricated with different CAD-CAM ceramic systems

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM

The mechanical behavior of ceramic endocrowns is unclear.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this in vitro and 3-dimensional finite element analysis (3D-FEA) study was to evaluate the mechanical behavior of endodontically treated teeth restored with ceramic endocrowns made by using different computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD-CAM) systems.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Sixty mandibular human molars were endodontically treated, prepared for endocrowns, and divided into 4 groups (n=15) according to the following various ceramic systems: leucite-based glass-ceramic (LC group), lithium disilicate-based glass-ceramic (LD group), glass-ceramic based on zirconia-reinforced lithium silicate (LSZ group), and monolithic zirconia (ZR group). After adhesive bonding, the specimens were subjected to thermomechanical loading and then to fracture resistance testing in a universal testing machine. The failure mode of the specimens was qualitatively evaluated. Three-dimensional FEA was performed to evaluate the stress distribution in each group. Data were analyzed by using a 1-way ANOVA and the Tukey HSD test (α=.05).

RESULTS

Statistically significant differences among the groups were observed (P<.05). The outcomes of the LC, LD, and LSZ groups were similar (1178 N, 1935 N, and 1859 N) but different from those of the ZR group (6333 N). The LC and LD groups had a higher ratio of restorable failures, while LSZ and ZR had more nonrestorable failures. Fractographic analysis indicated a regular failure pattern in the ZR group and irregular failure patterns in the other groups. Three-dimensional FEA revealed similar values and stress pattern distributions among the groups.

CONCLUSIONS

The mechanical performance of monolithic zirconia was better than that of the other ceramic endocrowns considered in this research; however, monolithic zirconia presented a higher rate of catastrophic tooth structure failure.

A comparison of the fracture resistance of premolars without a ferrule with different post systems

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM

Which type of post improves the performance of endodontically treated mandibular premolars without a ferrule remains unclear.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this in vitro study was to compare the restoration of endodontically treated mandibular premolars without a ferrule by using different post systems.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Thirty extracted mandibular premolars were endodontically treated, and their crowns removed. They were divided into 3 groups with different post systems (n=10): zirconia ceramic posts (ZRPs), fiber posts (FPs), and bundled glass fiber-reinforced composite resin posts (GTPs). After post placement and core fabrication, computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacture (CAD-CAM) lithium disilicate crowns were cemented. The specimens were subjected to thermocycling and mastication simulation before a fracture test in a universal testing machine. The maximum load at which the fracture occurred was recorded, and the fractured specimens were examined by using an optical microscope. The data were analyzed for statistical differences with a 1-way ANOVA and the Tukey honestly significant difference post hoc test (α=.05).

RESULTS

No statistically significant difference in fracture strength was found among the groups (P=.970). From the light microscopy examination, catastrophic failure was observed in all specimens, and there was no failure of the ceramic crowns.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on the findings of this in vitro study, the choice of post material with a low or high modulus of elasticity did not prevent catastrophic failures in endodontically treated teeth without a ferrule.

Effect of Endocrowns on Fracture Strength and Microleakage of Endodontically Treated Primary Molar Teeth

Objectives:

Optimal restoration of endodontically treated teeth is very important for the durability of the endodontic treatment. The focus of this study was to evaluate the fracture strength and microleakage of composite endocrowns compared with Class II composite restorations in endodontically treated primary molar teeth.

Materials and Methods:

48 extracted second primary molars were divided into 2 groups. Group 1 (control): teeth with Class II and endodontic access cavities restored with G-aenial composite; group 2: endocrown restorations with G-aenial composite. After completing restorative procedures, teeth were subjected to thermal cycling (500 cycles). Compressive loading was applied to half of the samples, although the other half were immersed in 0.5% basic fucsin solution for 24 h, sectioned, and examined for dye penetration under stereomicroscope. Data were subjected to statistical analysis by the Mann-Whitney U test (α = 0.05).

Results:

The fracture strength of endocrowns (1741 ± 379.35 N) was significantly higher than that of the control group (1126.5 ± 405.39 N) ( P < .05). No statistical difference was found in microleakage between the 2 groups ( P > .05).

Conclusion:

Endocrown preparation increases the fracture strength of the final composite restoration when used in primary molar teeth. Composite endocrown restorations can be a practical and an esthetic option for restoring endodontically treated primary molar teeth.

Effect of Load Cycling on the Fracture Strength/Mode of Teeth Restored with FRC Posts or a FRC Liner and a Resin Composite

The aim of the study was to comparatively evaluate the fracture strength and mode of root canal treated teeth restored with resin composites with and without posts. The lingual cusps of root canal treated first upper premolars (n = 10/group) were removed down to cervical enamel and restored with the following: group A: glass-fiber post (Glassix) followed by a particulate-filled composite resin (PFC, G-aenial posterior, 3 × 2 mm layers); group B: glass-fiber reinforced composite bulk fill liner (EverX posterior, 4 mm layer) with the PFC (2 mm layer). Specimens were immersed in H2O (1 w/37°C), then subjected to load cycling (50 N/0.2 Hz/200k cycles), and fractured under compressive loading. Failure mode was characterized by stereomicroscopy. Statistical analysis was performed by Mann-Whitney (load) and Chi-square (mode) at a = 0.05. No statistically significant differences (p = 0.273) were found in fracture load between median values of groups A (860 N) and B (1059 N). In group A, 60% of the specimens demonstrated catastrophic root fractures and 40% mixed crown fractures (tooth cusp and restoration), whereas in group B, no root fractures were found, and the failure modes were equally distributed between mixed fractures as above and fracture of the buccal cusp. These differences were statistically significant (p = 0.004). The combination of the glass-FRC bulk fill liner with the PFC diminished the catastrophic root fractures induced by FRC posts, at a similar or higher fracture load.

Endocrown in premolar using lithium disilicate-reinforced ceramic: a case report

Este caso clínico descreve a restauração de um dente tratado endodonticamente com uma endocoroa em cerâmica de dissilicato de lítio fabricada pelo sistema CAD/CAM. O caso é de uma paciente do sexo feminino, 48 anos, que apresentava fratura coronária de um dente tratado endodonticamente. Uma restauração com endocoroa em dissilicato de lítio fabricada pelo sistema CAD/CAM foi indicada. As coroas foram avaliadas usando um sistema de avaliação de qualidade da Associação Dental da Califórnia e exame de acompanhamento. Uma endocoroa cerâmica em dissilicato fabricada por CAD/CAM foi uma alternativa de tratamento restaurador confiável para um pré-molar tratado endodonticamente. O preparo minimamente invasivo para endocoroa que preserva o máximo de estrutura dentária é considerado padrão ouro para restaurações dentárias. Ainda, tal alternativa restauradora é mais conservadora em comparação à coroa total com retentor intrarradicular e apresenta apropriado desempenho mecânico e longevidade com um menor custo e rapidez no preparo.

Effect of Endocrown Restorations with Different CAD/CAM Materials: 3D Finite Element and Weibull Analyses

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of two endocrown designs and computer aided design/manufacturing (CAD/CAM) materials on stress distribution and failure probability of restorations applied to severely damaged endodontically treated maxillary first premolar tooth (MFP). Two types of designs without and with 3 mm intraradicular extensions, endocrown (E) and modified endocrown (ME), were modeled on a 3D Finite element (FE) model of the MFP. Vitablocks Mark II (VMII), Vita Enamic (VE), and Lava Ultimate (LU) CAD/CAM materials were used for each type of design. von Mises and maximum principle values were evaluated and the Weibull function was incorporated with FE analysis to calculate the long term failure probability. Regarding the stresses that occurred in enamel, for each group of material, ME restoration design transmitted less stress than endocrown. During normal occlusal function, the overall failure probability was minimum for ME with VMII. ME restoration design with VE was the best restorative option for premolar teeth with extensive loss of coronal structure under high occlusal loads. Therefore, ME design could be a favorable treatment option for MFPs with missing palatal cusp. Among the CAD/CAM materials tested, VMII and VE were found to be more tooth-friendly than LU.

Fibre reinforcement in a structurally compromised endodontically treated molar: a case report

The reconstruction of structurally compromised posterior teeth is a rather challenging procedure. The tendency of endodontically treated teeth (ETT) to fracture is considerably higher than vital teeth. Although posts and core build-ups followed by conventional crowns have been generally employed for the purpose of reconstruction, this procedure entails sacrificing a considerable amount of residual sound enamel and dentin. This has drawn the attention of researchers to fibre reinforcement. Fibre-reinforced composite (FRC), designed to replace dentin, enables the biomimetic restoration of teeth. Besides improving the strength of the restoration, the incorporation of glass fibres into composite resins leads to favorable fracture patterns because the fibre layer acts as a stress breaker and stops crack propagation. The following case report presents a technique for reinforcing a badly broken-down ETT with biomimetic materials and FRC. The proper utilization of FRC in structurally compromised teeth can be considered to be an economical and practical measure that may obviate the use of extensive prosthetic treatment.

Effects of different cusp coverage restorations on the fracture resistance of endodontically treated maxillary premolars

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM

Cusp coverage restorations for the restoration of endodontically treated teeth represent a conservative approach in terms of function and esthetics. However, limited scientific data are available regarding the optimum reduction design and thicknesses.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this in vitro study was to evaluate the fracture resistance and fracture patterns of cusp coverage restorations with different cusp reduction designs and reduction thicknesses on endodontically treated maxillary premolars (ETMPs) with mesio-occluso-distal (MOD) cavities.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

One hundred sixty-five extracted intact human maxillary premolars were divided into 11 groups: G1-10 (test groups) and G11 (intact group). In the test groups, all of the teeth were restored with composite resin after canal treatments with MOD cavities. However, the cusps of the G1-9 teeth were reduced with combinations of different thicknesses (1.5, 2.5, and 3.5 mm) and designs (beveled, horizontal, and anatomic). The specimens were subjected to 10(5) cycles of 50 N mechanical loading. Next, the specimens were subjected to a compressive load at a crosshead speed of 0.5 mm/min until fracture. The fractured specimens were analyzed to determine the fracture pattern. Two-way ANOVA followed by the Fisher least significant difference (LSD) test was used to analyze the interaction between groups.

RESULTS

The fracture resistance values increased with increases in the cusp reductions. The fracture resistance values of the G6 (2.5 mm, anatomic) and G9 (3.5 mm, anatomic) groups were significantly greater than that of the MOD group. However, the G6, G8 (3.5 mm, horizontal), and G9 groups were comparable with G11. The highest restorable fracture rates were observed in G6 and G9.

CONCLUSIONS

Cusp reduction design and thickness influenced the fracture resistance and fracture patterns of cusp coverage restorations of ETMPs with MOD cavities. The teeth restored with anatomic cusp reduction designs with reduction thicknesses of at least 2.5 mm exhibited greater fracture resistance and more frequent restorable fractures.

The effect of a fiber reinforced cavity configuration on load bearing capacity and failure mode of endodontically treated molars restored with CAD/CAM resin composite overlay restorations

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the fracture strength and the mode of failure of endodontically treated molars restored with CAD/CAM overlays with fiber reinforced composite build-up of the pulp chamber.

METHODS

40 Devitalized molars were cut over the CEJ and divided into five groups (n=8). The pulp chamber area was filled with: group 0 (control), no resin build-up; group 1, hybrid composite build-up (G-aenial posterior, GC); group 2, as in group 1 but covered with 3 nets of bi-directional E-glass fibers (EverStickNET, Stick Tech Ltd.); group 3, a FRC resin (EverX posterior, GC); group 4, as in group 3 but covered by the bi-directional fibers. The crowns were restored with CAD-CAM composite restorations (Lava Ultimate, 3M ESPE). Maximum fracture loads were recorded in Newton and data were analyzed using Kruskal-Wallis test (p<0.05). Fragments were analyzed using SEM.

RESULTS

The mean static loads in Newton were: group 0: 2448 (546); group 1: 2817 (873); group 2: 2128 (952); group 3: 2429 (1091); group 4: 2577 (833). No significant differences were found between the groups (p>0.05). All specimens fractured in a catastrophic way, under the CEJ. The main crack evolved in the corono-apical direction. In groups 2 and 4 secondary fracture paths with apico-coronal direction were detected close to the bi-directional fibers' layer.

CONCLUSIONS

For the restoration of endodontically treated molars, the incorporation of FRCs did not influence the load-bearing capacity of the tooth-restoration complex. The SEM analysis showed a low ability of the bi-directional fibers net in deviating the fracture but this effect was not sufficient to lead more favorable fracture patterns, over the CEJ.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

The use of FRCs to reinforce the "core" of devitalized molars against vertical fractures under static loads seems useless when the thickness of the CAD/CAM composite overlay restoration is high.

In vitro fracture resistance of molar teeth restored with a short fibre-reinforced composite material

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this in vitro study was to evaluate the efficiency of a short fibre-reinforced composite (SFRC) material compared to conventional composites when restoring class II. MOD cavities in molar teeth with different layering techniques.

METHODS

One hundred and thirty mandibular third molars were divided into 5 groups (n=26). Except for the control group (intact teeth), in all other groups MOD cavities were prepared. The cavities were restored by either conventional composite with horizontal and oblique layering or by SFRC with horizontal and oblique layering. The specimens were submitted to static fracture toughness test. Fracture thresholds and fracture patterns were evaluated.

RESULTS

In general, no statistically significant difference was found in fracture toughness between the study groups, except for horizontally layered conventional composite restorations, which turned out to be significantly weaker than controls. However, SFRC yielded noticeably higher fracture thresholds and only obliquely applied SFRC restorations exhibited favourable fracture patterns above chance level.

CONCLUSIONS

The application of SFRC did not lead to a statistically significant improvement of the fracture toughness of molar teeth with MOD cavities. Still, SFRC applied in oblique increments measurably reduces the chance of unrestorable fractures of molar teeth with class II MOD cavities.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

The restoration of severely weakened molar teeth with the use of SFRC combined with composite might have advantages over conventional composites alone. It was observed from the statistical data, that the application of SFRC with an oblique layering technique yielded not significantly but better fracture thresholds and more favourable fracture patterns than any other studied material/technique combination. Thus further investigations need to be carried out, to investigate the possible positive mechanical effects of SFRC. The application of the horizontal layering technique with conventional composite materials is inferior to the oblique technique and SFRC materials.