Can fiber posts increase root stress and reduce fracture?

• Grant number: 10/00249-0
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants - Publications - Scientific article
• Start date: April 01, 2010
• End date: September 30, 2010
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Dentistry - Dental Materials
• Principal Investigator: Josete Barbosa Cruz Meira
• Grantee: Josete Barbosa Cruz Meira
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Odontologia (FO). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Paulo , SP, Brazil

Abstract

The clinical success of fiber posts has been attributed to its lower elastic modulus. The tested hypothesis is that fiber posts could lead to lower risk of post debonding and lower risk of root fracture, despite an increase in root stresses. Stress analyses were carried out using a 3D finite element model of a premolar restored with metallic or fiber post. Bonded and nonbonded post / cement interface conditions were simulated. Risk of fracture indexes were calculated by determining the highest principal stress values divided by the tensile strength. Shear stresses along the post / cement interface were analyzed for the bonded models. Compared to the premolar restored with a metallic post, the fiber post generated lower stresses along the interface and higher stresses in the root. However, with the fiber post fracture was less likely to occur in the root, since its core and post fracture indexes were higher. (AU)