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

Area of Science:

• Dental Materials Science
• Endodontics
• Biomaterials Engineering

Background:

• Restoration of endodontically treated teeth often requires post and core procedures.
• Fiber posts offer advantages over traditional metal posts due to their mechanical properties.
• Optimizing post retention is crucial for long-term restoration success.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of fiber post customization and laser application on the retention of posts in endodontically treated teeth.
• To compare the pull-out test results between conventional and customized fiber posts with and without laser treatment.
• To determine if post customization enhances bond strength and reduces cement layer thickness.

Main Methods:

• Forty-eight bovine incisors were prepared and endodontically treated.
• Roots were divided into four groups: conventional post/no laser, customized post/no laser, conventional post/laser, and customized post/laser.
• Posts were cemented, and pull-out tests were conducted using a universal testing machine.
• Statistical analysis included analysis of variance and the Tukey test.

Main Results:

• Customized fiber posts (groups 2 and 4) demonstrated significantly higher pull-out test values compared to conventional posts (group 1).
• Laser application showed a trend towards improved results but was not statistically significant in all comparisons.
• Customization led to a thinner cement layer, indicating improved adaptation and retention.

Conclusions:

• Customization of fiber posts significantly enhances their retention in endodontically treated teeth.
• Fiber post customization is a valuable technique for improving the stability of restorations.
• Further research may explore optimal laser parameters for enhanced disinfection and bonding.