Post-retentive ability of new flowable resin composites

Area of Science:

• Dental Materials Science
• Restorative Dentistry

Background:

• Fiber-reinforced posts are commonly used in endodontically treated teeth.
• Evaluating the bond strength of luting agents is crucial for long-term restoration success.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the push-out bond strength of fiber posts luted with flowable composites.
• To compare the retentive strength of different luting materials.

Main Methods:

• 36 human premolars were endodontically treated and restored with light-transmitting or opaque posts.
• Tested adhesive/cement combinations: OptiBond Solo Plus/Nexus Third Generation (NX3), XP Bond/SureFil SDR Flow (SDR), and Vertise Flow (VF).
• Push-out tests and stereomicroscope analysis determined bond strength and failure modes.

Main Results:

• Luting material significantly impacted post bond strength (P<0.001).
• SureFil SDR Flow (SDR) and Nexus Third Generation (NX3) showed similar push-out bond strengths (9.00 ± 2.17 MPa and 7.15 ± 1.74 MPa, respectively).
• Vertise Flow (VF) exhibited significantly lower bond strength (4.81 ± 1.51 MPa). Failure modes varied significantly across groups.

Conclusions:

• Flowable composites, particularly SureFil SDR Flow, can be effective post luting agents.
• Material selection significantly influences the bond strength and retentive stability of fiber posts.
• Further research into failure modes can optimize clinical application.