The use of composites as core material in root-filled teeth. II. Clinical investigation

49 patients who during a period of 10 years have been provided with gold crowns and composite cores, both as separate crowns and in bridges, have been followed up. The composite cores have been reinforced and retained in their roots, almost in every case by screw-posts. The basis for evaluation has been radiographs taken before the commencement of treatment and at the follow-up 2-10 years later together with clinical examination of the restorations. The aim has been to determine whether the restorations continue to function satisfactorily or if failures have occurred. Of the 51 teeth which were available for reexamination 43 were found to be functioning satisfactorily at the follow-up. In one case only the gold crown had loosened from its core. In the remaining seven unsuccessful cases the cement retention between the crowns and cores were intact and the teeth had been lost because of root fracture, secondary caries and/or inadequate post retention.