Posts--when it all goes wrong! Part 1: case assessment and management options

Posts have been used for many years to retain restorations or cores for extra-coronal restorations in endodontically treated teeth.This article discusses the variety of post systems that are available and the incidence and reasons for failure of teeth that have been restored with posts. The treatment options available for the management of such failures are considered, in addition to the indications for both non-surgical and surgical management of endodontic failures. The attitudes of dentists and the perceived complications of attempting post removal are reviewed, along with the evidence to support the prevalence of complications.

Failure of post-retained restorations is a relatively frequent finding due to failure of the restoration itself or the endodontic treatment. It is therefore important to understand and be aware of the various treatment options available, their indications and associated risks.