Influence of fiber posts on the fracture resistance of endodontically treated premolars with different dental defects

This study aimed to evaluate the influence of quartz fiber post placement on the fracture resistance of endodontically treated premolars with different dental defects under dynamic loading. Fifty extracted single-rooted mandibular premolars were randomized into five groups. Each group was prepared according to numbers of residual walls ranged from 0 to 4. Then each group was divided into two subgroups with one restored with quartz fiber posts and the other without posts. In no-post groups, gutta percha point 2 mm below cemento-enamel junction was removed. Composite resin was adapted to the well and used to shape the core directly. Each tooth was restored with a complete metal crown. Dynamic loading was carried out in a masticatory simulator with a nominal load of 50 N at 2 Hz for 300 000 loading cycles. Then a quasi-statically load was applied in a universal testing machine 30° to the long axis with a crosshead speed of 1 mm⋅min⁻¹ until fracture. Data were analyzed with one-way analysis of variance and pairwise comparison (P<0.05). No specimens failed during dynamic loading. The fracture resistance enhanced with the increase of numbers of coronal walls and the differences were significant (P<0.05). Placement of fiber posts had a significant effect when fewer than two walls remained (P<0.05), but it had no significant influence in groups with two, three or four walls (P>0.05). Fiber post did not change failure mode, and the fracture pattern was mainly favorable. More dentin walls need to be retained in clinic. When no less than two walls remained, a fiber post is not always necessary.