Fracture resistance of postendodontic restoration using self-adhesive bioactive resin and a bulk-fill composite with or without resin-impregnated glass fibers: An in vitro study

Abstract

Context: Due to advancements in adhesive technology and the introduction of fiber reinforcement, there has been a paradigm shift towards a more minimally invasive approach in coronal restoration of endodontically treated teeth. Aims: This research aimed to evaluate and compare fracture resistance of postendodontic restoration using a self-adhesive bioactive resin and a bulk-fill composite with or without resin-impregnated glass fibers. Materials and Methods: Mesio-occlusal-distal cavities were prepared on 80 extracted human maxillary premolars. Root canal treatment was completed following standard access cavity preparation. Then, the teeth were divided into two groups based on the composite used for postendodontic restoration. Group I: Bulk-fill composite (Tetric N-Ceram). Group II: Activa BioActive. Group I and Group II were then divided into two subgroups depending on fiber incorporation (n = 20). Subgroup IA: Bulk-fill composite. Subgroup IB: Bulk-fill composite with fiber incorporation. Subgroup IIA: Activa BioActive. Subgroup IIB: Activa BioActive with fiber incorporation. The force required to fracture the teeth was recorded using the universal testing machine. Statistical Analysis Used: Two-way ANOVA and Tukey’s multiple post hoc test. Results: Activa BioActive with fiber incorporation showed the highest mean fracture resistance (988.52N). Bulk-fill composite without fiber incorporation had the least mean fracture resistance (669.87N). Conclusions: Activa BioActive bulk-fill restorative material when used with the incorporation of resin-impregnated glass fibers can be a preferred material of choice for restoring endodontically treated teeth.