Load-bearing capacity of human incisor restored with various fiber-reinforced composite posts

Objectives. The aim of this study was to evaluate the load-bearing capacity and microstrain of incisors restored with posts of various kinds. Both prefabricated titanium posts and different fiber-reinforced composite posts were tested. Methods. The crowns of human incisors were cut and post preparation was carried out. The roots were divided into groups: (1) prefabricated serrated titanium posts, (2) prefabricated carbon fiber-reinforced composite posts, (3) individually formed glass fiber-reinforced composite posts with the canal full of fibers, and (4) individually formed "split" glass fiber-reinforced composite posts. The posts were cemented and composite crowns were made. Intact human incisors were used as reference. All roots were embedded in acrylic resin cylinders and stored at room temperature in water. Static load was applied under a loading angle of 45 degrees using a universal testing machine. On half of the specimens microstrain was measured with strain gages and an acoustic emission analysis was carried out. Failure mode assessment was also made. Results. The group with titanium posts showed highest number of unfavorable failures compared to the groups with fiber-reinforced composite posts. Significance. With fiber-reinforced composite posts the failures may more often be favorable compared to titanium posts, which clinically means repairable failures. (C) 2011 Academy of Dental Materials. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.