Comparing accuracy after guide access and microscope-assisted access for fiber post removal.

Area of Science:

• Endodontics
• Dental Materials Science

Background:

• Fiber posts are widely used in endodontic restorations.
• Accurate removal of fiber posts is crucial to preserve tooth structure.
• Minimally invasive post removal techniques are highly desirable.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the accuracy of digital guide-supported versus microscope-assisted ultrasonic systems for fiber post removal.
• To evaluate the impact of each system on post-core restoration integrity.

Main Methods:

• Twenty-eight extracted premolars underwent root canal treatment and fiber post restoration.
• Fiber posts were removed using either a digital guide or a microscope-assisted ultrasonic instrument.
• Deviation measurements (vertical, horizontal, angular) and volume loss were quantified using Mimics 10.0 software.

Main Results:

• Microscope-assisted removal showed significantly less apical horizontal deviation, angular deviation, and volume loss compared to the digital guide.
• Apical vertical deviation was not significantly different between the two groups.
• Digital guide removal resulted in less volume loss (8.09 mm³±1.42 mm³) than microscope-assisted removal (15.25 mm³±3.94 mm³).

Conclusions:

• Digital guide-supported fiber post removal minimizes volume loss, preserving more tooth structure.
• Microscope-assisted ultrasonic instruments offer superior accuracy in terms of horizontal and angular deviation during fiber post removal.
• The choice between systems depends on prioritizing minimal volume loss versus precise deviation control.