[Restoration of endodontically treated elements. A literature review on the mechanical behavior of post and core...

Rapid developments in dental health and science have resulted in an increasing number of teeth receiving post and core restoration. The dentist can choose from a wide range of restoration-modalities. Success or failure of these restorations largely depends on their ability to meet functional demands. This article presents a review of the literature on the mechanical behaviour of post-core restorations, as it is determined by functional forces, shape of the tooth and restoration and properties of the materials the construction incorporates. Some attention is drawn to the importance of failure characteristics in view of re-restoration possibilities. As a conclusion some guidelines for the use of post and core restorations in the general dental practice are formulated.