Effect of cyclic loading on bonding of fiber posts to root canal dentin

This study evaluated the effect of mechanical loading on microtensile bond strength (MTBS) when luting fiber posts to root canal dentin. Forty maxillary premolars were endodontically treated, and the roots were prepared for post cementation using the FRC Postec system. A light-cured composite (Clearfil Photo Core, Kuraray) was used in combination with four adhesive systems: Single Bond (3M ESPE), Multilink Primer (Vivadent), Clearfil Photo Bond (Kuraray), and Clearfil New Bond (Kuraray). A composite build-up was performed around the root to provide adequate gripping during testing. For each experimental group, half of the specimens were load cycled under 90 N (5000 cycles, 3 cycles/s). Specimens were cut to obtain beams with the post in the center and with the radicular dentin overlaid by the composite build-up on each side. Microtensile testing was performed with a universal testing machine at a cross-head speed of 0.5 mm/min. The failure mode was classified under a stereomicroscope. ANOVA and Student-Newman-Keuls multiple comparison tests were performed. After 24 h, all adhesives performed similarly. When specimens were subjected to mechanical loading, decreases in MTBS were observed for Clearfil New Bond and Multilink Primer.