Open Access
CC BY 4.0 · European Dental Research and Biomaterials Journal 2022; 03(01/02): 003-016
DOI: 10.1055/s-0043-1775967
Review Article

Restorative Modalities for Structurally Compromised Teeth with Thin-walled Roots: A Literature Review

1   Research Committee, Dental Branch, Islamic Azad University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
,
2   School of Dentistry, International Campus, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
,
Mohammad Mahdi Khanmohammadi
1   Research Committee, Dental Branch, Islamic Azad University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
,
3   Department of Prosthodontics, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
› Institutsangaben
 

Abstract

Proper restoration and maintenance of endodontically treated teeth with thin-walled roots and immature apices is of a great concern due to the high prevalence of such cases. The aim of this study was to review the efficiency of different materials used for post–core systems in order to restore endodontically treated teeth. A literature review was conducted using electronic databases including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar to find relevant articles. Randomized controlled trials that were related to different post–core techniques for restoring endodontically treated teeth and were in the English language were included from 2000 until 2022. Most articles concluded that cast posts have higher fracture resistance than fiber posts. All articles comparing stainless steel posts with other materials found that it had higher fracture strength. No particular difference between various types of fiber posts was identified, and all can reinforce the immature roots with thin dentinal walls.


Introduction

Thin-walled teeth can be a result of overinstrumentation and endodontic treatment, large dental caries, or immature root development.[1] Fracture resistance of filled thin-walled roots appears to be lower than vital teeth. The remaining dentin thickness and the selection of restorative materials and post–core systems influence the tooth resistance.[2] Also in childhood, dental caries and traumatic accidents can cause severe coronal structure damage in permanent immature teeth. This can lead to necrosis of pulps; therefore, treating these immature teeth with thin walls and wide apices have always been a difficult challenge. Several techniques for healing immature apices are practiced; however, for preserving the roots walls and cervical region, reinforcement and the choice of restorative materials are essential.[3] [4] Several studies report different treatments for endodontically treated teeth (ETT) and the endurance of post systems. In some of them, optimal treatments with suitable techniques have been proposed; however, the long-term success of those treatments is not determined yet.[5] [6] In ETT, posts are placed to improve fracture resistance and the maintenance of coronal restorative treatments.[7] In current restorative approaches, post and core systems are gradually developing toward being more corrosion resistant and stronger, and less invasive techniques that do not weaken the remaining root structure are recommended due to the likeliness of flared canals to fracture.[8] Therefore, the remaining dentin should be retained as much as possible when preparing the root canal for post fabrication.[9]

Generally, two main types of post systems are advocated to restore root canal; cast posts and fiber-reinforced composite (FRC) posts. Cast posts include prefabricated and custom-made posts. They are used clinically to reinforce and rehabilitate ETT by distributing forces through the root structure. Prefabricated post systems are less pricey and may be less invasive in certain conditions.[8] Several drawbacks are associated with cast posts including unsatisfactory aesthetics, lengthy treatment and laboratory procedures, highly reductive effects on teeth, and insufficient retention. Fiber posts are utilized as an alternative with some improved features and they are as well, used as prefabricated and custom-made. Different materials are used for fiber reinforcement including glass, carbon, and quartz fibers for the prefabricated FRC posts and polyethylene fibers (Ribbond) for customized fiber post systems. Their main proposed benefit was that they are more adaptable than metal posts and more adjustable to the root shape. They have nearly the same modulus of elasticity (stiffness) as dentin and when bonded in canal with resin cement, it is assumed that forces would be distributed more evenly through the root walls, resulting in fewer root fractures.[10]

Since restoring teeth with insufficient and weakened canal wall is a clinical challenge, the aim of this paper is to review various studies that utilized different materials and techniques for restoration of ETT.


Materials and Methods

An electronic search of PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, limited to articles published from 2000 to 2022 was conducted. The following query keywords were included: Thin-walled teeth, Thin-walled roots, Weakened roots, Post and Core Techniques, “Dowels, Dental,” Fracture resistance, Endodontically-treated teeth, Immature teeth, Structurally compromised teeth. Studies that were relevant to this study, written in English, and were conducted as a randomized controlled trial were chosen. For the initial article searching, titles and keywords were considered and 566 articles were found (PubMed: 247, Scopus: 234, Web of Science: 10, Google Scholar: 75). In the first study selection based on screening abstracts and titles and removing duplicate articles, 87 studies remained. In the second study selection based on full-text analysis, the studies were chosen if related to different post and cores application and methods for thin-walled and structurally compromised teeth, and the evaluation of post and dentin thickness and length. Eventually, 36 studies were chosen. Twenty studies compared different post–core materials. Eight studies compared weakened and nonweakened roots, five studies compared using composite resin or glass ionomer cement (GIC) or neither as restorative materials for reinforcing thin-walled roots, and three studies compared stainless steel posts with fiber posts and cast posts.


Results

Effect of Post Material on Fracture Resistance of Thin-Walled Teeth

Among studies that compared cast posts with fiber posts, most of them came to the same conclusion that thin-walled teeth with cast post–cores had the highest fracture resistance ([Table 1]). Kivanç et al and Maccari et al[11] [12] reported that cast posts had higher strength and there was no significant difference among various fiber post types. Also, Balkaya and Birdal[1] showed that parallel-sided cast posts have the highest fracture resistance among all, and cast posts with less diameter show higher resistance, whereas fiber posts with larger diameters are slightly more resistant. In Marchi et al[13] study, the fracture resistance was shown to decrease for custom cast posts, prefabricated metallic posts, and prefabricated carbon fiber posts. In contrast, Goncalves et al[14] stated that among the weakened roots, groups with metal CuAl cast post had the lowest resistance and there was no significant difference between roots filled with light-transmitting polymerization post and prefabricated titanium post with different resin types in each group. Also, Li et al[15] reported that groups with fiber posts showed more resistance compared with metal posts. Considering stress values, Khadar et al[5] observed higher stress concentration for teeth restored with cast metal posts, whereas it is more even for fiber post and composite posts. This may be due to the possible monoblock unit formation in the tooth structure.

Table 1

Effect of post material on fracture resistance of thin-walled teeth

Authors/year

Tooth

Groups

Results

Khadar et al[5]/2022

Single rooted maxillary central incisors

4 groups (N = 80):

Group A: No posts (control)

Group B: Cast metal post (CMP)

Group C: Customized Composite Post (CCP)

Group D: Fiber post (FP)

Cast metal post groups exhibited the highest fracture resistance followed by customized composite posts, the fiber posts, and the control group. Higher stress concentration in the radicular region was observed for the cast metallic posts

Iemsaengchairat and Aksornmuang[6]/2022

Mandibular single-root canal premolars

4 groups (N = 48):

Direct resin composite post and core (CP)

Multiple fiber posts and resin composite core (FP)

CAD/CAM anatomical post and core (AP)

Metal cast post and core (MP)

Metal cast post and core demonstrated the highest fracture resistance for restoring a thin-walled endodontically treated tooth, followed by multiple fiber posts with resin composite core

Fráter et al[21]/2021

Maxillary central

Incisors

4 groups (N = 60):

Control group: multiple unidirectional FRC-post + dual-cured composite-core

PFC: multiple unidirectional FRC-post + packable short fiber-reinforced composite (SFRC)

BPFC: Bioblock technique with only packable SFRC

BFFC: Bioblock technique with only flowable SFRC

PFC and control group had significantly better survival rates, indicating that multiple unidirectional FRC posts seem to be a good choice for treating severely damaged anterior teeth

Santos et al[56]/2021

Bovine incisors

8 groups (N = 80):

Without simulating weakness (n = 40)

Simulating weakness (n = 40)

Subgroups of each group (n = 10):

without intraradicular reinforcement

glass fiber–reinforced composite posts (GT)

Rebilda conventional glass fiber posts (RP)

GT + RP

The groups with GT + RP showed the highest resistance with a significant difference with other groups except nonweakened RP group. This indicates that a combination of GT and RP glass fiber posts is more resistant for immature teeth

Fráter et al[57]/2020

Bovine incisors

6 groups (N = 180):

Group 1: Bioblock technique with short fiber-reinforced composite (SFRC)

Group 2: Bioblock technique with flowable SFRC

Group 3: Individually-made FRC post

Group 4: Conventional FRC post

Group 5: Dual-cured core build-up composite

Group 6: intact (control)

Use of Flowable SFRC resulted in a favorable survival and fracture strength. Group 4 results displayed a high number of microgaps

Veeraganta et al[9]/2020

Mandibular first premolars

Two main groups (N = 64) based on one or two residual walls (n = 32):

Each groups has two subgroups based on post material (Glass fiber post of Titanium post) (n = 16)

Each subgroup divides into two subsubgroups (n = 8):

70 or 90 ISO size diameter

A significantly higher fracture strength was found for titanium groups compared to glass fiber posts

Lassila et al[27]/2020

Bovine incisors

5 groups (n = 40):

Group A: fiber-post and Dual-cured core

build-up composite (Gradia Core) + PFC crown

Group B: fiber-post and Flowable fiber reinforced composite (everX Flow) core + PFC crown

Group C: everX Flow as post–core + PFC crown

Group D: post–core indirectly made from CERASMART

Group E: Gradia Core as post–core + PFC crown

The highest fracture resistance was found for Group B. Moreover, fiber post plus everX Flow as core increased the teeth durability

Josic et al[58]/2020

Mandibular premolars

2 groups (N = 20):

Group1: Sealed with Acroseal (Septodont, France) and gutta-percha,

Group 2: Fiber posts (FRC Postec Plus, Ivoclar Vivadent) were luted using self-adhesive composite cement (SpeedCEM Plus, Ivoclar Vivadent)

No statistically significant difference was found between groups therefore, fiber post has no considerable influence on the preservation of immature edodontically treated teeth

Öztürk et al[59]/2018

Maxillary canines

4 groups (N = 80):

Group 1: No post–core, composite resin

Group 2: Cast post–core

Group 3: Glass fiber-reinforced

epoxy post system (Radix fiber post), composite resin core

Group 4: Glass fiber-reinforced

epoxy post system (I-TFC ipost), composite resin core

The highest fracture resistance was observed for the group 2, group 3, group 4, and control group, respectively. With the highest rate of nonrestorable fractures for group 2. In the Groups 3,4 fracture mode would allow restoring the tooth

Amarnath et al[23]/2015

Mandibular premolars

6 groups (N = 60):

Group 1,2,3: Stainless-steel (SS)

Group 4,5,6: Glass fiber post (FP)

The highest mean strength was obtained for stainless-steel posts, and the lowest was obtained for glass fiber posts

Cauwel et al[60]/2014

Weakened bovine

incisors

4 groups (N = 75),

Group 1: (n = 20), control group, Unfilled teeth

Group 2: (n = 17), filled with mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA)

Group 3: (n = 18), filled with calcium phosphate bone cement (CPBC)

Group 4: (n = 20), filled with fiber reinforced composite (FRC) posts

The results denoted the highest mean initial fracture load for the FRC group and the lowest for the control group. The control group (95%), The FRC (90%), and CPBC (89%) groups showed most favorable fractures, respectively. All fractures were at the cervical area of the palatal part of the root

Sharafeddin et al[19]/2014

Mandibular premolar roots

4 groups (N = 40), n = 10

Group EX: Exacto glass fiber post

Group EXR: Exacto glass fiber post + 2 Reforpin accessories

Group DT: D.T. Light quartz fiber post

Group DTF: D.T. Light quartz fiber post + 2 Fibercone accessories

There were no statistically significant differences in fracture resistance among teeth. The fracture resistance order was as follows: EX > DT > EXR > DTF

Wandscher et al[61]/2014

2 groups (N = 80):

Weakened teeth (n = 50):

5 subgroups n = 10:

CPC-gold (cast post and core made of gold alloy)

CPC-Ni (cast post and core made of Ni-Cr alloy)

FP (glass fiber posts)

FP-W (glass fiber posts with a wider coronal diameter)

FP-CR (fiber posts relined with composite resin).

Nonweakened roots (n = 30)

3 subgroups n = 10:

CPC-gold

CPC-Ni

FP

In the survival analysis, group FP-W demonstrated the highest survival rate.

Cast post groups had higher fracture loads than fiber post groups. No differences were observed among groups with nonweakened roots

Balkaya and Birdal[1]/2013

Maxillary incisors

9 groups (N = 90),

4 groups without root canal enlargement:

C1.3: tapered end cast posts of 1.3 mm

C1.7: tapered end cast posts of 1.7 mm

F1.3: tapered end fiber posts of 1.3 mm

F1.7: tapered end fiber posts of 1.7 mm

5 groups with root canal enlargement:

LF1.3: low viscosity composite resin + 1.3-mm fiber post

LF1.7: low viscosity composite resin + 1.7-mm fiber post

SF1.3: self-adhesive resin cement + 1.3-mm fiber post

SF1.7: self-adhesive resin cement + 1.7-mm fiber post

C4: parallel cast posts of 4 mm

The fracture resistance of the teeth with cast posts (C1.3 group) was significantly higher than those with fiber posts (F1.3 group). The teeth restored with composite resin and fiber posts demonstrated higher fracture resistance than those with fiber posts alone (F1.3, F1.7). The parallel-sided cast posts (C4 group) had the highest fracture resistance

Amin et al[55] /2013

Endodontically treated

teeth

3 groups (n = 60):

Group 1 (control): Nonweakened roots + glass fiber–reinforced dowels

Group 2: weakened roots + glass fiber–reinforced dowels relined with composite resin

Group 3: weakened roots + glass fiber–reinforced dowels and a thick layer of

luting cement

each group has two subgroups (n = 10):

subgroup a: custom-made core

subgroup b: prefabricated glass fiber–reinforced core

The highest fracture bearing capacity was for the nonweakened group and the composite relined group. The prefabricated core indicated higher fracture resistance than the custom-made core

Pinho et al[62]/2013

Bovine

lower central incisors

2 groups (N = 30)

CMP-Cr: composite resin and cast metal post

GFP-Cr: composite resin and glass fiber post

Group with composite resin and cast metal post showed higher fracture strength

da Rosa et al[30]/2013

Mandibular incisors

5 groups (N = 50),

Group 1: healthy roots with a glass fiber post

Group 2: partially weakened teeth with a glass fiber post

Group 3: partially weakened teeth with a glass fiber post and 2 accessory glass fiber posts

Group 4: extensively weakened teeth with a glass fiber post

Group 5: extensively weakened teeth with a glass fiber post and 5 accessory glass fiber posts

No significant differences among the groups. Most fractures were cervical. Favorable fractures (fractures at the simulated bone level or above, failures in the coronal part of the post, or displacement of the crown or post) mainly occurred in group 2

Dikbas et al[20]/2012

Axillary

anterior teeth

4 groups (N = 48):

Control group: AH Plus sealer + Gutta-percha

Group 2: Glass fiber posts + self-adhesive resin cement

Group 3 : Quartz fiber posts + self-adhesive resin cement

Group 4: Zirconia posts

No significant difference was found between the experimental groups

Makade et al[22]/2011

Maxillary incisors

4 groups (N = 40), each n = 10

Control group (A): intact coronal structure without post core

Group B: cast post–core

Group C: stainless steel post with composite core

Group D: glass fiber post with composite core using adhesive resin cement

Group C had the highest fracture resistance among all four groups and the control group had the lowest

Zogheib et al[24]/2011

Anterior teeth

4 groups: (N = 40)

Group I (control): nonweakened, glass fiber posts

Group II: weakened roots, glass fiber post and composite resin by incremental technique

Group III: weakened roots, glass fiber post and accessory glass fiber posts

Group IV: weakened roots, anatomic glass fiber post technique

The control group was significantly higher in resistance. No statistically notable difference was observed between the three experimental groups. Most of the fracture modes with incremental technique were repairable in contrast with other group techniques

Li et al[15]/2011

Maxillary anterior teeth

2 groups (N = 48)

Group A: minor diameter open apex

Group B: major diameter open apex

Each has 3 subgroups:

Subgroup 1: fiber-post

Subgroup 2: metal post

Subgroup 3: non-post

No significant difference was found overally between two groups and between post types in group B, whereas in group A the mean value of fracture resistance for fiber post was higher than metal or non-post

Vidya et al[16]/2011

Anterior teeth

3 groups (N = 36):

Group A: cast post & core

Group B: composite + Luminex titanium post

Group C: composite + Luscent Anchor glass

fiber post

No significant difference between post types. Mode of fracture was more favorable in groups with resin reinforcement whereas in cast posts group, fractures were non-restorable

Solomon and Osman[2]/2011

Maxillary incisors

4 groups (N = 100):

Group MC: cast post and core

Group GF: glass-fiber post and composite resin core

Group CF: carbon fiber post with composite resin core

Group Ti: prefabricated parallel-sided titanium post and composite resin core

It was concluded that cast post and cores have remarkably higher fracture resistance compared to fiber post groups.

No considerable difference was found among other groups

Ayad et al[17]/2010

Maxillary central incisors

7 main groups: (N = 140),

Control: no irrigant

20% lactic acid

10% lactic acid

15% EDTA[a]

5% Hydrogen peroxide

5% Sodium hypochlorite

Combination (5% hydrogen peroxide and sodium hypochlorite)

Each group was divided into 2 subgroups according to restorative materials and each sub group was divided into 2 sub subgroups according to dowel type:

Subgroup 1: n = 10, composite resin cement

Subgroup2: n = 10, Glass ionomer

Subsubgroup 1: Titanium alloy dowel (control)

Subsubgroup 2: Quartz fiber-reinforced dowel

The highest mean values were observed for the group with 20% lactic acid and reinforced with composite resin with values about 100.7% higher than the group with lowest resistance (5% sodium hypochlorite-treated group reinforced with glass ionomer). Application of composite resin increased the fracture resistance in comparison to glass ionomer. Groups filled with quartz fiber-reinforced dowels showed the highest mean fracture resistance

Kivanç et al[11]/2009

Maxillary central incisors

3 groups (n = 165):

Group 1: n = 55, 1.0-mm circumferential dentin

Subgroup R: n = 11, Polyethylene woven fiber post

Subgroup L: n = 11, Composite resin cured by light-transmitting post + Glass fiber post

Subgroup E: n = 11, Electrical glass fiber post

Subgroup C: n = 11, composite coronoradicular restoration

Subgroup M: n-11, cast metal post

Group 2: n = 55, 2.0-mm circumferential dentin

Subgroups R, L, E, C and M

Group 3: n = 55, 1.5-mm circumferential dentin

Subgroups R, L, E, C and M

For each group, fracture resistance ranges from low for the composite coronoradicular restoration group to high for the cast metal post group. Fracture strength was higher for teeth restored with cast metal posts than for fiber posts and all composite coronoradicular restoration groups. Moreover, no notable difference in fracture strength between the different fiber post materials and between composite coronoradicular restorations was seen

Marchi et al[13]/2008

Bovine incisor

roots

24 groups (N = 288), each n = 12

2 main groups: submitted or not to thermomechanical aging, each have 4 subgroups:

custom cast core

composite resin core

prefabricated metallic post

prefabricated carbon fiber post,

each subgroups has 3 subsubgroups: intact, semi-weakened, weakened

The greatest and lowest fracture resistance was observed for roots filled with custom cast cores and carbon fiber posts, respectively

Liang et al[25]/2007

Maxillary central incisors

2 groups (n = 12)

Control group: Ni-Cr post–core

Group 2: 1.0-mm thick layer of dual-cured RBC[b] encircling a Ni-Cr post–core

Group 2 fractured under a significantly higher mean force

Maccari et al[12]/2007

Anterior teeth

3 groups (N = 30),

Group A: Quartz Fiber- Reinforced Resin post

Group B: Glass Fiber- Reinforced Resin Post

Group C: Cast Metal post

The mean load value was significantly higher for cast metal post group. No difference in fracture strength amount between groups A and B was observed. All fractures in fiber-reinforced resin posts restorations were repairable. 7/10 teeth restored with cast posts had irreparable fractures

Wu et al[26]/2007

Maxillary central incisors

3 groups (N = 21),

Group 1(control): cast post–core

Group 2: dual-cured RBC[b] + cast post–core

Group 3: ChemFil Superior GIC[c] + cast post–core

A remarkable higher mean force was required to fracture the roots reinforced with RBC than for the control group and group 3. A significantly higher micro tensile bond strength is observed for RBC than GIC. All of the roots in Group 1 and five of Group 3 fractured in the cervical region and four of the roots in Group 2 fractured at the apices of the posts

Goncalves et al[14]/2006

Maxillary incisors

6 groups (N = 48),

Control group (C): cast CuAl posts

CP group: Weakened roots and CuAl posts

LT group: light-transmitting polymerization post (Luminex) + Tetric Ceram resin + prefabricated titanium post (PTP)

LF group: Luminex posts + Filtek Supreme resin + PTP

LZ group: Luminex posts + Z100 resin + PTP

LR group: Luminex posts + Renew resin + PTP

There is a statistical difference (P < .01) between the control group and the CP group that had the lowest fracture resistance. No notable difference was reported among control group specimens and LT group, LF group, LZ group, and

LR group

Newman et al[8]/2003

Maxillary central incisors

3 main groups: (N = 90)

Group 1,4 (Control): (n = 10), Parapost XH 1.5-mm stainless steel

Narrow group: (n = 40), 4 subgroups (n = 10),

Group 1,1: FibreKor 1.5-mm Glass fiber

Group 1,2: Dentatus Luscent anchors 1.6-mm Glass fiber

Group1,3: Ribbond standard 1.6-mm Woven polyethylene fiber

Group1,5: Ribbond Nonstandardized 1.6-mm Woven polyethylene fiber

Flared Group (with thin-walled canals): (n = 40), 4 subgroups (n = 10),

Group 2,1: FibreKor 1.5-mm Glass fiber

Group 2,2: Dentatus Luscent anchors 1.6-mm Glass fiber

Group 2,3: Ribbond standard 1.6-mm Woven polyethylene fiber

Group 2,5: Ribbond Nonstandardized 2.0-mm Woven polyethylene fiber

The ParaPost control group had the highest load value. The mean load value for narrow canal groups varies from low for the Ribbond standard to high for the Luscent anchors, while for flared canal groups it ranges from low for FibreKor to high for both Luscent anchors and Ribbond standard groups. The statistical difference among narrow groups was notable while it was not significant for flared groups. The Ribbond standard groups were highly weaker than the nonstandardized Ribbond

Akkayan and Gülmez[18]/2002

Maxillary canines

4 groups (N = 40),

Group 1: Titanium posts 1.60 mm

Group 2: Quartz fiber posts 1.70 mm tapered form

Group 3: Glass fiber posts 1.50 mm

Group 4: Zirconia posts 1.70 mm

The highest mean failure load was measured for quartz fiber posts (group 2). Glass fiber and zirconia posts (groups 3 and 4) restorations were statistically similar. Fracture in groups 1 and 4 were unrestorable while repairable fractures were seen in group 2 and 3

a Ethylenediaminotetraacetic acid.


b Resin-based composite.


c Glass–ionomer cement.


Regarding the mode of fracture Vidya et al[16] found that groups with cast posts showed more catastrophic fractures leading to extraction compared with glass fiber and titanium posts.

Considering fiber posts with different materials, Ayad et al and Akkayan and Gülmez[17] [18] concluded that quartz fiber posts required a higher mean load to fracture than titanium posts. Akkayan and Gülmez[18] reached the result that the fracture resistance from high to low was found for quartz fiber posts, glass fiber posts, zirconia posts, and titanium posts, respectively. While in Sharafeddin et al, Maccari et al, and Dikbas et al[12] [19] [20] studies, there was no statistical difference found between quartz and glass fiber posts. Dikbas et al[20] stated that using either glass fiber, quartz fiber, or zirconia posts can reinforce the root in immature teeth. Furthermore, application of multiple unidirectional FRC posts as an individual post leads to a higher fracture resistance comparing with one single FRC post.[21]

According to Newman et al,[8] stainless steel para post had the highest fracture resistance comparing with glass fiber posts and Ribbond woven polyethylene fibers. Also in Makade et al[22] study, it was found that the mean fracture resistance was lessened for the group with stainless steel posts and composite core, glass fiber post with composite resin, and cast posts, respectively. Amarnath et al[23] came to the same result that groups with stainless steel posts had higher mean failure load. Additionally, Zogheib et al[24] found that no statistical difference was seen in roots filled with glass fiber posts used with different techniques such as using composite resin with incremental technique, accessory fiber posts, and anatomic glass fiber posts.

In the articles studied, all reported that bonding of a thick layer of composite in the root canal and tag formation along the dentin tubules significantly increased the fracture resistance.[17] [25] [26] Wu et al[26] found that using a layer of resin-based composite (RBC) or GIC both lead to a better function than a cast post alone. Also, short FRCs have been found to be promising as a core for structurally compromised teeth compared with dual-cured core build-up composite.[27]


Effect of the Thickness of Dentin and Post Length on the Fracture Resistance of Endodontically Treated Teeth

Regarding the remaining dentin thickness, generally, weakened roots have a lower fracture resistance than nonweakened roots.[24] [28] [29] Kivanç et al[11] found that fracture resistance was highly influenced by the remaining dentin thickness in fiber post groups, although not significant. In contrast, in groups with cast metal posts, load failure was affected by axioproximal dimension of dentin walls and the cast metal posts with dentin thickness of 2.0 mm showed fewer values than that of 1.0 and 1.5 mm.

Da Rosa et al[30] reported that favorable failures were most predominant in partially weakened teeth with a glass fiber post, followed by the groups with healthy roots and a glass fiber post, and groups with extensively weakened teeth and glass fiber post plus five accessory glass fiber posts.

In a study by Junqueira et al,[31] glass fiber posts with different lengths were utilized in nonweakened, medium weakened, and highly weakened roots and no significant alteration in fracture resistance due to neither post length nor root dentin thickness was observed, although the relation between length and dentin thickness were remarkably related. However, Amarnath et al[23] reported that as the post length increased, the fracture resistance was higher to an extent of two-thirds of the root length and core debonding occurred in short-length posts. In contrast, Seto et al[32] study demonstrated that the 3-mm post length had higher fracture resistance than 7 mm.

According to Newman et al,[8] there was no significant difference between flared or narrow canals and mean load fractures of the post systems used, except for the Ribbond standard groups. For the narrow canal roots, the highest mean load value required for fracture was for the glass fiber posts, and in the flared canal groups it was for both glass fiber posts and woven polyethylene fibers, respectively ([Table 2]).

Table 2

Effect of the thickness of dentin and post length on the fracture resistance of endodontically treated teeth

Authors/year

Tooth

Groups

Results

Veeraganta et al[9]/2020

Mandibular first premolars

Two main groups (N = 64) based on one or two residual walls (n = 32):

Each groups has two sub groups based on post material (Glass fiber post of Titanium post) (n = 16)

Each subgroup divides into two subsubgroups (n = 8):

70 or 90 ISO size diameter

Regarding post diameter, groups with increased diameter exhibited more resistance. Also, there was no statistically significant result between 1 or 2 residual walls

Junqueira et al[31]/2016

Bovine roots

9 groups (N = 90), each n = 10, with glass fiber posts

NW: Nonweakened, MW: Medium weakened, HW: Highly weakened

Post length: 7, 9, and 12 mm

Although no change in fracture resistance due to either post length (P = 0.784) or root dentin thickness was observed, interaction between length and dentin thickness are remarkably related

Amarnath et al[23]/2015

Mandibular premolars

6 groups (N = 60):

Group 1: Stainless-steel post(SS), 4-mm post length

Group 2: SS, 7-mm post length

Group 3: SS, 10-mm post length

Group 4: Glass fiber post (FP), 4-mm post length

Group 5: FP, 7-mm post length

Group 6: FP, 10-mm post length

Post length of 7 mm in SS groups and 10 mm in FP groups showed the highest mean resistance. 4-mm length had the lowest rate for both post types

Balkaya and Birdal[1]/2013

Maxillary incisors

9 groups (N = 90),

4 groups without root canal enlargement:

C1.3: tapered end cast posts of 1.3 mm

C1.7: tapered end cast posts of 1.7 mm

F1.3: tapered end fiber posts of 1.3 mm

F1.7: tapered end fiber posts of 1.7 mm

5 groups with root canal enlargement:

LF1.3: restored with low viscosity composite resin with fiber posts of 1.3 mm

LF1.7: restored with low viscosity composite resin with fiber posts of 1.7 mm

SF1.3: self-adhesive resin cement with fiber posts of 1.3 mm

SF1.7: self-adhesive resin cement with fiber posts of 1.7 mm

C4: parallel cast posts of 4 mm

For the cast posts it was higher with 1.3 mm diameter than for 1.7-mm posts whereas, for the fiber posts it increased as the diameter also increased. The teeth restored with composite resin and fiber posts demonstrated higher fracture resistance than those with fiber posts alone (F1.3, F1.7). Also, no significant difference was found between roots with and without space enlargement and their interaction with post diameters. The parallel-sided cast posts (C4 group) had the highest fracture resistance

Seto et al[32]/2012

Maxillary anterior teeth

7 groups (N = 75):

Group 1 (Negative control): intact (n = 5)

Group 2 (Positive control): 3 mm drilled below CEJ, no restoration (n = 5)

Group 3 (Positive control): 7 mm, no restoration (n = 5)

Group 4: 3-mm composite (n = 15)

Group 5: 3-mm quartz fiber post (n = 15)

Group 6: 7-mm composite (n = 15)

Group 7: 7-mm quartz fiber post (n = 15)

Groups with 3-mm depth preparation composite and quartz fiber post (group 4, 5) had the highest strength for teeth with thin dentinal walls

Kivanç et al[63]/2009

Maxillary central incisors

3 groups (n = 165):

Group 1: n = 55, 1.0-mm circumferential dentin

Group 2: n = 55, 2.0-mm circumferential dentin

Group 3: n = 55, 1.5-mm circumferential dentin

In fiber posts fracture resistance was under influence of the dentin diameter, while for cast metal post groups axioproximal dimension of dentin walls affected the load failure

Zogheib et al[28]/2008

Maxillary canines

3 groups (N = 30),

control: teeth without weakened roots

PWR: partially weakened roots

LWR: largely weakened roots

Since the mean load value for groups were significantly different, it was concluded that thinner dentin thickness significantly decreases the fracture resistance of teeth

Marchi et al[13]/2008

Bovine incisor roots

24 groups (N = 288), each n = 12

2 main groups: submitted or not to thermomechanical aging,

each have 4 subgroups:

custom cast core

composite resin core

prefabricated metallic post

prefabricated carbon fiber post, each subgroup has three subsubgroups: intact-semiweakened-weakened

Roots with custom cast cores and weakened dentin walls, showed a lower fracture resistance



Discussion

The main purpose of post and cores is to contribute to retaining endodontically treated and thin-walled teeth. Numerous materials and techniques have been recommended for using posts for ETT due to the high demand for appropriate treatment. Metallic cast posts, zirconia posts, titanium and stainless steel posts, and nonmetallic dowels such as carbon, glass, quartz, or polyethylene fiber-reinforced post systems are utilized. Also, in case of immature teeth with open apices, large caries or trauma lead to thin and weak dentinal walls, thereby intraradicular reinforcement of immature teeth after apexification is a concept that has been found to improve the tooth's function and maintenance.[33]

The aim of this review was to compare and evaluate studies that examined at least two different post materials, in order to select materials that may improve the retention in root canals.

According to the findings in this study, cast posts and cores are more rigid than fiber posts and are able to resist higher loads. An explanation might be that custom cast cores comprise homogenous structures with a high modulus of elasticity that imitates the contour of the inner root wall; therefore, they have higher load-bearing capacity.[9] Somehow, in some cases they have been linked to root/crown fractures and also endodontic failures due to their elastic modulus mismatch.[7] Overall, in a retrospective study it was found that after an average of 4-year follow-up, postendodontic treatments with Kurer anchor system metal posts had high survival rates.[34]

Fiber posts have increased the operation of adhesive dentistry due to their benefits such as better bonding to canal surface, simpler placement, and removal during a single office visit, having the same elastic modulus as dentin, and better aesthetic appearance.[29] As stated in the monoblock concept, in order to increase the rigidity of weakened roots after endodontic instrumentation and immature teeth with open apices, a mechanically homogenous unit is required. Therefore, a strong bond between the reinforcement material and root canal as well as a similar modulus of elasticity of the material with the bonding surface will reduce the stress concentration.[35] It has been suggested that post materials with similar elastic modulus to dentin and carbon fiber posts accomplish this aim.[36]

Regarding composite cores, some authors have asserted that restorations with fiber posts and composite resin cores result in a higher fracture resistance in comparison to cast metal post cores due to their elasticity and their applied luting cement.[37] [38] It was explained in a study that in contrast to cast posts, between the fiber-reinforced resin posts and the dentin walls, a gap is present. This gap is filled with resin cement that can balance the stress instead of directly transferring it to the root.[12] On the contrary, another study have stated that a fiber post in a wide and flared canal such as immature teeth will fit improperly and the thick layer of resin cement might cause air bubbles entrapment, leading to debonding.[5] Generally, the most frequent failures are due to adhesion when adhesively luted posts are used, which can be related to problems in using techniques. Other causes might be root structure fractures or defects and lack of the ferrule effect. Additionally, root cracks and fractures are by themselves associated with the elastic modulus of posts according to some studies.[39]

Considering the mode of fracture, based on the articles included in this study and a systematic review, in comparison to metal posts, fiber posts have considerably demonstrated less severe root fractures.[10]

Among different post materials, in a systematic review, it has been stated that carbon fiber posts with resin matrix show significantly fewer failure outcomes than cast posts with precious alloys.[40] The fracture resistance of carbon fiber posts may depend on appropriate mechanical retention, and hence a proper bond of adhesive materials to the root canal.[13]

Among different alloys used in posts, titanium alloys have the most corrosion resistance and high fracture resistance, whereas alloys including brass show less strength corrosion resistance.[9] [41] In comparison with fiber posts, a systematic review concluded that titanium and fiber posts show similar fracture resistance.[10]

Glass fiber resin post systems that are formed from unidirectional glass fibers embedded in a resin matrix are reported to lower the risk of fractures of restored roots.[42] Elasticity of dentin is 20 Gpa, and glass fiber posts with a 40 Gpa modulus of elasticity would be an ideal post material.[16] Schmitter et al[43] found that glass fiber posts are significantly better than metal screw posts. On the contrary, in a study after performing a 3-year follow-up it was concluded that the survival rate of glass fiber and cast metal posts was similar.[39] Polyethylene woven fibers are materials with woven network that permit wetting of the fibers and resin infusion into the fibers. Therefore, the network effectively transfers the stress through the interface of enamel and adhesive materials to increase the fracture strength of restorative materials.[44] Ribbond materials can be used as individually shaped dowels by placing the pieces into the canal with a technique described by Erkut et al.[45] They are a kind of polyethylene woven fibers that seem to show better maintenance and continuity at the adhesion interface compared with glass fiber or quartz fiber reinforced dowels.[45] They are composed of Leno-woven, which is a special triaxial pattern of cross-linked threads. This lace-like structure improves its durability and adaption to teeth contours. It also increases mechanical interlocking of composite resins to surfaces.[46] Plastic light-transmitting posts were developed aiming to transmit light to the surrounding composite resin as a matrix around metallic posts and reinforcing the remaining flared root canals.[47] Frater et al[21] compared the use of multiple long unidirectional FRC posts and short fiber-reinforced composite (SFRC) post applied with bioblock technique. In the bioblock technique, SFRC post, either packable or flowable, is luted directly as a bulk into the canal, eliminating the use of luting cement. They came to the result that multiple long unidirectional FRC posts have better fracture behavior than SFRC posts. Also, multiple fiber post technique in comparison to a single FRC posts has shown better results.[6] [21]

Post diameter has a great influence on post stiffness, but its effect on fracture resistance is yet to be researched. According to some studies, posts with larger diameters are recommended since they have demonstrated higher resistance than less diameter posts, but this is not as important as saving the tooth structure.[9] Also, in some studies evaluating post lengths, no significant difference in fracture resistance between glass fiber posts of different lengths was found.[31] [48] Dentin thickness is as well an effective factor. As much tooth tissue as possible should be preserved while restorative procedures since it has been reported that 1 mm of dentin thickness has less fracture resistance under horizontal pressure than 2 to 3 mm dentin walls.[26] [49] Another approach with regard to post diameter is the proportional approach where post width should not be larger than one-third of the canal width.[41] Therefore, the dentin tissue around the post impacts fracture strength, mostly when cast metal posts are used.[30] Although during the preparation of root canal for cast posts, more dentin is removed and root walls may be weakened, there is no consensus whether this fact is solely a weak point for cast posts compared with fibers posts. Several other factors such as post material and its modulus of elasticity, diameter, type of cement and post adaptation must be considered.[50]

Considering the intensity of the failure, in most studies, nonrepairable fracture patterns have been seen in teeth filled with cast metal posts, whereas repairable fractures are mostly observed in roots filled with fiber posts. A reason can be that cast posts apply stress directly on the root.[7] [31]

In many studies, the ferrule effect is suggested to enhance the fracture resistance against functional forces and wedge effect of posts and also reduces possible microleakage of cement area in teeth with enough remaining supragingival structure.[51] [52] However, in a recent systematic review it was assumed that no conclusive evidence suggesting that ferrule effect significantly reduce fractures is available.[53] In many clinical conditions, the teeth might be obliquely broken or have lost the coronal walls. Methods such as crown lengthening and orthodontic forced eruption methods are performed to provide more tooth structure in this cases. However, it is unclear whether it is also useful in case of oblique fractures. Meng et al found that these methods decreased the fracture resistance of teeth with oblique fractures.[54] Further clinical studies comparing teeth with or without ferrule is needed.

RBCs increase the thickness of the dentin walls. Also, it is assumed that having the same elastic modulus as dentin for these reinforcing materials as well as posts can help the tooth withstand functional forces.[26] In composite resin restorations, a bond is formed with the dentin tubules, resulting in production of a hybrid layer and resin tags, which can improve micromechanical retention.[17] Amin et al[55] found that relining the post with composite resin increases the resistance compared with using a bulk of luting cement. GICs also can improve fracture resistance of root canaled teeth with thin-walled roots.[26] Failure in resistance might be ascribed to inconvenient application or fracture of the composite resin layer.[12]

The studies that we reviewed has some limitations such as not studying full crowns or the absence of the periodontal ligament that may affect the failure modes and further investigations are needed to clarify the effects of these conditions. Another limitation concerns the fact that in most studies tests were performed on single-rooted and different anterior teeth. Specific post preparations and similar methods of compressive pressure were used but in various angles. This might differ from the natural occlusion forces on teeth.


Conclusion

Within the limitations of this study, the following can be concluded:

  • It seems that cast posts, despite their need for more root canal dentin removal, show higher fracture strength when used for ETT treatment.

  • Quartz fiber posts, glass fiber posts, and Ribbond customized posts can preferably be used as an alternative to zirconia and titanium posts due to their advantages.

  • Stainless steel posts show the highest fracture resistance in studies that compared them to other materials including fiber posts and cast posts.

  • Applying a layer of composite and resin tag formation through the root canal can increase the fracture resistance.

It is still a matter of controversy over which post length is more effective.



Conflict of Interest

None declared.

Author's Contribution

R.G. contributed in study design, data analysis/interpretation, writing of the manuscript. N. A. contributed in study design, collection of data, data analysis/interpretation, writing of the manuscript. N.A. contributed in collection of data, data analysis/interpretation, writing of the manuscript and M.M.K. contributed in collection of data, data analysis/interpretation, writing of the manuscript.



Address for correspondence

Rezvaneh Ghazanfari, DDS, MSc
Prosthodontics Department, Dental School, Tehran University of Medical Sciences
North Karegar St., 14399-55991 Tehran
Iran   

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26. Dezember 2023

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