Post and core build-ups in crown and bridge abutments: Bio-mechanical advantages and disadvantages

Poly-Ether Ether-Ketone Post Conditioned with Sulfuric Acid, Rose Bengal Activated by Photodynamic Therapy and Sandblasting on Pushout Bond Strength to Radicular Dentin Luted with Methyl Methacrylate and Composite-Based Cement

Objective: Assessment of post surface conditioners [sulfuric acid (SA), Rose Bengal (RB), and sandblasting (SB)] and different luting cements [methyl methacrylate (MMA)-based cement and composite-based cement] on pushout bond strength (PBS) of poly-ether ether-ketone (PEEK) post bonded to canal dentin. Materials and methods: Endodontic treatment was performed on 120 single-rooted human premolar teeth. The preparation of the post space was performed and 4 mm of gutta-percha was retained in the apical region of the root. One hundred and twenty PEEK posts were fabricated from a PEEK blank utilizing a Computer aided design-Computer aided manufacture (CAD-CAM) system. The PEEK posts were allocated randomly into four groups based on post surface conditioning (n = 30). Group A: SA, Group B: RB, Group C: SB, and Group D: No conditioning (NC). Each group was further divided into two subgroups based on the luting cement used for bonding (n = 15). Group A1, B1, C1, and D1 specimens were cemented using composite-based resin cement. However, Group A2, B2, C2, and D2 posts were luted with MMA-based resin cement. PBS assessment using a universal testing machine was performed. Failure modes were analyzed under a stereomicroscope. The data relating to the effects of surface treatment and luting types of cement were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey's post hoc test (p = 0.05). Results: Coronal section of Group B2: RB+Super-Bond C&B [9.61 ± 0.75 megapascals (MPa)] displayed the highest bond scores of PEEK after root dentin. Whereas it was also discovered that Group D1: NC+Panavia®V5 (2.05 ± 0.72 MPa) presented the lowest PBS scores. Intergroup comparison analysis revealed that Group A2: SA+Super-Bond C&B and Group B2: RB+Super-Bond C&B displayed no significant difference in their bond scores. Conclusions: RB and SA possess the potential to be used as a PEEK post conditioner. MMA-based cement displayed better performance than composite-based cement.

Evaluation of Poly(etheretherketone) Post's Mechanical Strength in Comparison with Three Metal-Free Biomaterials: An In Vitro Study

The thinking about metallic replacement has begun in a global context of reducing metallic alloys' use in odontology. Among the materials proposed for their replacement, poly(etheretherketone) may present interesting properties, especially in removable dentures' frames. The purpose of this study is to evaluate fracture resistance of PEEK posts-and-cores compared to non-metallic CAD/CAM materials and fiber glass posts. Forty extracted maxillary central incisors were prepared to receive posts. Samples were divided into four groups depending on whether they had been reconstructed with LuxaCam® PEEK, Enamic®, Numerys GF® or LuxaPost®. Samples were submitted to an oblique compressive test and results were statistically analyzed with ANOVA and Student's tests (or non-parametric tests depending on the conditions). Glass fiber posts and Numerys GF® reveal a significantly higher fracture resistance than LuxaCam® PEEK and Enamic®. No exclusively dental fracture has been noted for the Enamic group, which significantly distinguishes these samples from the three other groups. In our study, it appears that the conception of posts and cores with hybrid ceramic never conducts to a unique tooth fracture. By weighting the results according to the materials used, our data, obtained for the first time on this type of PEEK block, cannot confirm the possibility of using PEEK for inlay-core conception, excepted for specific cases when the material is considered in a patient presenting allergies or systemic disease contraindicating resin or metal.

Cumulative 10-year performance of endodontically treated teeth with prosthetic restorations of base metal alloy double crowns with friction pins-a retrospective study

OBJECTIVES

This 120-month follow-up study aimed to investigate the complication rate of abutment teeth after endodontic pretreatment with base metal alloy double crowns with friction pins.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 158 participants (n = 71, 44.9% women) aged 62.5 ± 12.7 years with 182 prostheses on 520 abutment teeth (n = 459, 88.3% vital) were retrospectively analyzed between 2006 and 2022. Of the endodontically treated abutment teeth, 6.9% (n = 36) were additionally treated with post and core reconstructions. Cumulative complication rates were calculated using the Kaplan-Meier estimator and log-rank test. In addition, Cox regression analysis was performed.

RESULTS

The cumulative complication rate at 120 months for the entire set of abutment teeth was 39.6% (confidence interval [CI]: 33.0-46.2). Endodontically treated abutment teeth (33.8%; CI: 19.6-48.0) were found to have a significantly higher cumulative fracture rate than vital teeth (19.9%; CI: 13.9-25.9, p < 0.001). Endodontically treated teeth restored with post and core reconstructions (30.4%; CI: 13.2-47.6) showed a nonsignificant lower cumulative fracture rate than that of teeth with root fillings only (41.6%; CI: 16.4-66.8, p = 0.463).

CONCLUSIONS

Higher 120-month cumulative fracture rates were observed in endodontically treated teeth. Comparable performance was observed in teeth with post and core reconstructions compared to teeth with root fillings only.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

If endodontically treated teeth are used as abutments for double crowns, the risk of complications from these teeth should be considered when planning treatment and communicating with the patient.

Surface conditioning of PEEK post using Nd: YVO4 laser, Photodynamic therapy, and sulfuric acid on the pushout bond strength to canal dentin

AIM

To assess the push-out bond strength (PBS) of polyetheretherketone (PEEK) post-to-root dentin using post-surface conditioners i.e., Neodymium-doped yttrium orthovanadate (Nd: YVO4) and Riboflavin (RF) and Rose Bengal (RB) mediated photodynamic therapy (PDT) compared to sulfuric acid (SA).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Decoronation of forty human single-rooted premolar teeth was performed. Followed by chamber opening, working length (WL) was established at 15 mm. Root canal preparation was completed using ProTaper Ni-Ti rotary system till F3 finishing file along with root canal disinfection. The canals were dried with paper cones followed by obturation using gutta-percha (GP) and AH sealer. Post space was prepared by drilling out 11 mm of GP using a Gates Glidden drill #3. PEEK posts were fabricated using the CAD-CAM system and then randomly allocated into 4 groups based on the post-surface conditioning (n=10). Group 1: SA, group 2: PDT RF, group 3: PDT RB, and group 4: Nd: YVO4 laser. The PEEK post was then cemented in their respective canal. PBS and failure mode assessment were performed using a universal testing machine and stereomicroscope at 40x magnification. The SBS data set was subjected to a one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey's Post Hoc test at a significance level of 0.05.

RESULTS

The samples in group 4 (Nd: YVO4 laser) coronal third (7.99±0.24 MPa) demonstrated the highest PBS. The apical third of samples in group 1 PEEK post surface conditioned with SA (5.15± 0.52 MPa) exhibited the minimum values of PBS. Intergroup comparison analysis showed that samples in group 1 (SA), group 2 (RF activated by PDT), group 3 (RB activated by PDT), and group 4 (Nd: YVO4 laser) demonstrated comparable outcomes of bond scores (p>0.05) CONCLUSION: Neodymium-doped yttrium orthovanadate (Nd: YVO4) and riboflavin and Rose bengal activated by photodynamic therapy (PDT) have been investigated as potential alternatives for the surface conditioning of PEEK (polyetheretherketone) posts.

Comparative evaluation of marginal and internal fit of endocrowns using lithium disilicate and polyetheretherketone computer-aided design - computer-aided manufacturing (CAD-CAM) materials: An in vitro study

Purpose:

To evaluate the marginal and internal fit of endocrowns with different computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD-CAM) materials by measuring them with a stereomicroscope (μm).

Materials and Methods:

A mandibular first molar typodont tooth was prepared to receive an endocrown. The preparation was scanned using an extra-oral scanner. Endocrowns (n = 20) were fabricated using lithium disilicate (IPS e. max CAD LT block; CEREC Ivoclar Vivadent, Liechtenstein) and polyetheretherketone (PEEK) (breCAM. BioHPP^®; Bredent, UK) using CAD-CAM technique. Marginal gap was evaluated using a stereomicroscope at the midpoint of all four surfaces (mid buccal, mid lingual, mid mesial, mid distal). This was followed by sectioning of the endocrowns in a sagittal plane along with the prepared tooth to evaluate the internal fit at four different points (A, B, C, D) using a stereomicroscope. Statistical analysis was performed using one-way analysis of variance test.

Results:

Mean values of marginal gap of lithium disilicate and PEEK endocrowns are 56.6 ± 6.1 μm and 81.3 ± 10.1 μm, respectively. Mean value internal gaps of lithium disilicate and PEEK endocrowns are 158.2 ± 11.1 μm and 199.1 ± 13 μm, respectively. Results in the present study have shown that the marginal and internal fits of lithium disilicate endocrowns are superior to that of PEEK endocrowns.

Conclusions:

Based on the outcomes of this in vitro study, the marginal and internal fit of lithium disilicate endocrowns is better than PEEK endocrowns. The marginal gap clinically acceptable is <120 μm. The marginal gap values recorded in this study are within the acceptable range for both materials.

Immediate and long-term microshear bond strength of resin-based cements to core build-up materials

Background

To evaluate the microshear bond strength (μ-SBS) between resin-based cements and core build-up materials after water storage.

Material and Methods

Cylinders (1x1 mm) of conventional dual-cure resin cement (RelyX ARC, 3M ESPE), universal dual-cure resin cement (RelyX Ultimate, 3M ESPE) or self-adhesive resin cement (RelyX U200, 3M ESPE) were adhered to disks (6x2 mm) made with commercial core build-up materials (Bis-Core, Bisco or LuxaCore Z, DMG) or conventional nanocomposite resin (Filtek Z350 XT, 3M ESPE). The specimens (n=10) were submitted to μ-SBS test using a universal testing machine and fracture pattern analysis at 48 hours or after 9 months of water storage. The data were evaluated by three-way ANOVA for repeated measures and Tukey’s test (α=0.05).

Results

After 48 hours, regardless of the resin-based cement used, the μ-SBS to the conventional resin composite (Filtek Z350 XT) was greater compared to other materials. However, after 9 months, there was a statistically significant decrease in μ-SBS values between the conventional resin composite and evaluated luting agents. The μ-SBS values of core build-up commercial materials (Bis-Core and LuxaCore Z) did not change over time. Regardless of the composite used and storage time, there was no statistically significant difference between the resin-based cements. After 48 h, the most prevalent failure was mixed for all groups. However, after 9 months, the core build-up materials showed a predominantly mixed fracture pattern whereas the resin composite presented an adhesive pattern.

Conclusions

Commercial core build-up materials achieved stable bonding performance with resin-based cements over time.

Key words:Composite resins, resin cement, dental restoration failure.

Guided removal of a fractured fiber post and immediate restoration with a digitally prefabricated titanium post-and-core and zirconia crown: A clinical report

A completely digital workflow is described for the immediate restoration of a fractured fiber post with a digitally prefabricated definitive restoration using 3-dimensionally printed guides. The geometric morphology and axis of the root canal were digitally determined by using cone beam computed tomography to localize the 3-dimensional position of the fractured fiber post. A virtual drill modeled on the shape of the fractured post was fabricated and customized for removal of the post by using a guide to facilitate the intraoral transfer of the drilling procedure. A titanium post-and-core and crown had been virtually predesigned and fabricated before the procedure, and 2 digital guides were designed for their placement. All guides were 3-dimensionally printed. By following this workflow, the removal of the fractured fiber post and immediate definitive restoration were completed in 1 visit, facilitating a more efficient, predictable, and straightforward treatment.

Effect of Composite Core Materials on Fracture Resistance of Endodontically Treated Teeth: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of In Vitro Studies

Various material properties are involved in the success of endodontically treated restorations. At present, restorative composites are commonly employed as core build-up materials. This study aimed to systematically review the literature to assess the effect of using composite core materials on the in vitro fracture of endodontically treated teeth. Two different reviewers screened the literature, up to June 2021, in five distinct electronic databases: PubMed (MedLine), Scopus, Scielo, ISI Web of Science, and EMBASE. Only in vitro studies reporting the effect of the use of composite core materials on the fracture resistance of endodontically treated teeth were included. A meta-analysis was carried out using a software program (Review Manager v5.4.1; The Cochrane Collaboration, Copenhagen, Denmark). The risk of bias in each study was assessed following the parameters of another systematic review. A total of 5016 relevant papers were retrieved from all databases. After assessing the title and abstract, five publications remained for qualitative analysis. From these, only three studies remained for meta-analysis. The fracture strength of endodontically treated teeth where a core build-up composite was used was statistically significantly higher than the control (p = 0.04). Most of the analyses showed a high heterogenicity. The in vitro evidence suggests that the composite core build-up with higher filler content tended to improve the fracture resistance of the endodontically treated teeth, in comparison with conventional composite resins. This research received no external funding. Considering that this systematic review was only carried out on in vitro papers, registration was not performed. Furthermore, there were no identified clinical studies assessing core build-up materials; therefore, more well-designed research on these materials is needed.

Fracture resistance of endodontically-treated maxillary premolars restored with different type of posts and direct composite reconstructions: A systematic review and meta-analysis of in vitro studies

OBJECTIVE

To conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis to assess if the presence of an endodontic post may increase the fracture resistance of endodontically-treated maxillary premolars directly restored with composite.

METHODS

A comprehensive systematic literature search according to the PRISMA statement was conducted to assess in vitro studies including endodontically-treated maxillary premolars, restored with different type of posts supporting direct composite reconstructions. Two groups of meta-analyses were performed using fixed effects model and additional Trial Sequential Analysis (TSA) was carried out. Moreover, risk of bias was conducted and quality of evidence for any performed meta-analysis was assessed using Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE).

RESULTS

Twenty-four articles met the inclusion criteria and 13 studies also underwent quantitative evaluation. Fracture resistance of endodontically-treated premolars restored with fiber posts was significantly less than sound teeth (p value: < 0.00001), however endodontically-treated premolars with a fiber post provided an increase in fracture resistance when compared to equivalent teeth restored without post (p value: 0.003). TSA revealed high power of both meta-analyses. Moderate risk of bias was reported in 23/24 studies; only 1 study showed high risk of bias. GRADE system showed moderate strength of evidence due to the presence of a study with high risk of bias and to wide confidence intervals.

SIGNIFICANCE

Within the limitation of the present systematic review and meta-analysis, it can be concluded that endodontically-treated maxillary premolars restored with a fiber post and direct composite restoration demonstrated increased fracture resistance when compared to equivalent teeth without post.

Restoration of Root Filled Teeth; Current Opinions and Techniques

Purpose:

To examine current decision-making preferences of Jordanian dentists when Restoring Root Filled Teeth (RFT).

Materials and Methods:

834 Jordanian general dentists, prosthodontists and endodontists were invited to participate in a validated online survey with a 62% participation rate. Respondents were invited to answer 24 questions about their preferences for techniques and materials they use to restore RFT. The questions aimed at exploring restorative strategies commonly employed by Jordanian dentists when managing root filled teeth with extensive loss of tooth structure.

Results:

A minority of dentists consider direct resin restoration as the sole restoration for RFT with extensive loss of tooth structure. Full coverage metal-ceramic and all-ceramic crowns are more popular than endocrowns when restoring RFT with indirect restoration. Fiber posts are the most popular type of posts, followed by prefabricated metal posts. Glass ionomer is the most preferred cement for luting metal posts, while conventional dual resin cement with separate etch and rinse bonding strategy is the most employed when bonding fiber posts. The majority of dentists tend not to pretreat fiber posts. Loss of post/core retention or fracture of coronal tooth structure are the two most common reasons observed by dentists when RFT fail.

Conclusion:

Use of post and core is still preferred over more conservative approaches when restoring RFT with extensive loss of coronal tooth structure. Longevity of restorations can be enhanced by training practicing dentists on evidence-based adhesive strategies.

Influence of a Retentive Shoulder Design to Prevent Early Failure of Three Core Build-Ups

This study evaluated the influence of a retentive shoulder design to prevent early failure of three resin composite build-ups on molars. Ninety-six intact extracted human maxillary third molars were assigned to two groups (n=48) based on occlusal, buccal cusps only and all cusps reduction. The groups were divided into two subgroups: pin retained and non-pin retained build-ups resulting in four groups (n=24), according the cusps reduction: pin retained/partial, pin retained/complete, non-pin retained/partial, non-pin retained/complete. Occlusal reduction was 3 mm with a semi-lunar retentive shoulder of 3 mm and an axial wall height of 1.5 mm. Groups were restored using a microhybrid, flowable or titanium reinforced resin composite. Modified self-curing acrylic resin provisional crowns were fabricated, cemented with non-eugenol temporary cement and thermal cycled. An instron machine applied tension to the provisional crowns parallel to the long axis of the tooth until dislodgement. A three-way analysis of variance was conducted on the influence of the variables on the retention of the core build-up. Ninety-three build-ups were retained under tensile load, while three core build-ups without pins were dislodged. Three-way analysis of variance showed no statistically significant difference between core build-ups using a retentive shoulder and pin retained core build-ups when tested under tensile load. With the advent of adhesive systems, increased surface area and retentive shoulder design can provide a retentive core foundation to prevent early failures of core build-ups during indirect restoration fabrication which will contribute to the longevity of final restorations.

Gingival tissue reaction to direct adhesive restoration: A preliminary study

INTRODUCTION

It is debated whether composite resin marginal/submarginal direct restoration can be usefully performed without inflammatory consequences. This histological study is the first human analysis aimed to compare, in the same tooth, the gingival tissue close to composite resin restorations with gingival tissue close to hard tissue.

METHODS

Eight healthy patients with almost a residual strategic tooth needing endodontic therapy, and post-and-core restoration, then indirect prosthetic restoration, were selected. Direct margin relocation with composite resin was necessary to perform endodontic treatment. The crown lengthening with a secondary flap harvested was necessary to perform prosthetic rehabilitation. Three months after marginal relocation, the secondary flap was harvested, embedded in PMMA, 4-μm sectioned, and stained to analyze the inflammation degree.

RESULTS

All patients completed post-and-core reconstruction and the planned prosthetic therapy, maintaining the stringent hygienic protocol plan. The inflammation level comparison, slightly lower in gingiva close to the teeth (3.62 ± 0.38) than in gingiva close to the composite (3.75 ± 0.26), results in a p-value of 0.11 after Wilcoxon test.

CONCLUSIONS

Results highlight a minimal, statistically not significant difference in the inflammation degree after margin relocation, conceivably due to patients, teeth and cases selection, together with adopted stringent methodological and supportive measures.