Failure Mechanisms of Fibre Posts: A Literature Review

Area of Science:

• Restorative Dentistry
• Dental Materials Science
• Endodontics

Background:

• Fibre posts are widely used for restoring endodontically treated teeth.
• Laboratory studies indicate favorable mechanical properties for fibre posts.
• Clinical performance data and failure mechanisms require thorough investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review the existing evidence on the causes of fibre post failure.
• To identify risk factors associated with various failure modes.
• To provide evidence-based recommendations for minimizing complications.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature search of MEDLINE and Cochrane Library from 1980 onwards.
• Hand searching of references from retrieved articles.
• Critical appraisal of nineteen prospective clinical trials meeting inclusion criteria.

Main Results:

• Adhesive failure was the most common cause, reported in 16 out of 19 trials.
• Other identified failure causes include root fracture, post fracture, endodontic failure, secondary caries, and periodontal complications.
• No significant difference in short-term survival probability was found between fibre and metal posts.

Conclusions:

• Despite favorable laboratory findings, clinical failures of fibre posts are prevalent.
• Adhesive bond failure is the primary mechanism contributing to clinical complications.
• Further well-designed, standardized, long-term clinical trials are essential due to study heterogeneity.