Customized fiber posts in root canals prepared with and without laser application: a pull-out evaluation

This study evaluated the effect of fiber post customization and laser application on the results of pull-out tests in endodontically treated teeth. Forty-eight bovine incisors were stored in aqueous 2% formaldehyde (pH 7.0) for 30 days. At the end of the storage period, the incisors were scraped with No. 11/12 periodontal curettes, rinsed with water and sodium bicarbonate, and stored in 0.9% saline solution for 7 days. Roots with similar shape and dimensions were selected and sectioned to a standard 17-mm length. Root canals were prepared and filled to a depth of 12 mm. The roots were divided into 4 groups (n = 12): 1, conventional fiber post and no laser application; 2, customized fiber post and no laser application; 3, conventional fiber post and laser application; and 4, customized fiber post and laser application. After removal of the obturation material for post space preparation, the canals were enlarged, and a laser beam was applied to the roots of teeth in groups 3 and 4 as an auxiliary disinfection procedure. After cementation of the posts, a pull-out test was performed using an axial tensile load at 0.5 mm/min in a universal testing machine. Analysis of variance and the Tukey test were used for statistical analysis of the results. The mean (SD) maximum tensile force was 10.18 (4.73) kgf in group 1, 38.89 (6.49) kgf in group 2, 27.74 (10.07) kgf in group 3, and 38.92 (6.89) kgf in group 4. These values were significantly higher in groups 2 and 4 than in group 1 (P < 0.05). The customization of fiber posts used for the restoration of pulpless teeth resulted in significantly (P < 0.05) greater pull-out test values, a thinner cement layer, and improved retention.