Fracture strength of endodontically treated molars transfixed horizontally by a fiber glass post.

PURPOSE

To assess the effect of a horizontally transfixed fiber glass post placed between buccal and palatal surfaces, on the fracture strength of endodontically treated molar teeth with MOD cavities, either restored with resin-based composite, or not.

METHODS

75 sound maxillary human third molars were extracted, embedded in acrylic resin blocks and randomly assigned to five groups (n=15). Group A (sound teeth), (control) and Groups B, C, D and E, which were subjected to the following procedures after endodontic treatment: GB--(MOD+Endo), GC--(MOD+Endo+Post), GD--MOD and composite restoration (MOD+Endo+CR), GE--(MOD+Endo+Post+CR). The specimens were stored in distilled water at 37 degrees C for 24 hours. Later, a compressive force was applied by means of a universal testing machine at 1 mm/minute speed, parallel to the long axis of the teeth until fracture occurred.

RESULTS

The means of the results (N) followed by the same letter represent no statistical difference by ANOVA and Tukey (P<0.05): GA = 4289.8 (+/- 1128.9)a, GB = 549.6 (+/- 120.7)b, GC = 1474.8 (+/- 338.1)c, GD = 1224.7 (+/- 236.0)c, GE = 2645.4 (+/- 675.1)d. In the analysis of qualitative variables, there was a tendency to cusp fracture in all groups except for Group C. The fiber glass post transfixed horizontally in a MOD cavity significantly increased the fracture resistance of the teeth restored with resin composite.