Fracture resistance of permanent anterior incisors using fiber-reinforced composite posts

This in vitro study investigated whether permanent anterior incisors that are endodontically treated with cemented fiber-reinforced composite (FRC) posts without additional canal preparation can potentially increase the resistance to fracture and thus reduce the rate of clinical failure in root canals. Extracted human permanent maxillary central incisors (n = 120) were randomly assigned to 2 experimental groups (n = 60): thermocycled (Group 1) and non-thermocycled (Group 2). These 2 groups were then further divided into 3 subgroups (n = 20). Subgroup 1.1 specimens had root canals prepared and obturated with FRC posts placed. Subgroup 1.2 specimens were prepared and obturated, but did not receive posts. Subgroup 1.3 specimens did not receive root canal preparation, and served as a control. The same processes were repeated for Subgroups 2.1, 2.2, and 2.3, respectively. Significant differences were found between the thermocycled and the non-thermocycled subgroups. Subgroup comparison within the thermocycled group (Group 1) showed significantly higher fracture resistance values for the teeth with post cementation (P < .0001).