Comparison of resistance to fracture between three types of permanent restorations subjected to shear force: An in vitro study.

INTRODUCTION: Our study's objective was to compare resistance to fracture between endocrown and conventional post and core restorations when subjected to shear force.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Thirty human mandibular premolars were extracted for orthodontic reasons, endodontically treated, and restored using three different methods: endocrown, glass fiber post and composite resin core, and metal post. All the crowns were made from IPS e.max ceramic. Shear forces were applied to these restorations using a test machine until breakage. Load and displacement were recorded every 0.1 s.

RESULTS: No significant difference was observed in resistance to fracture between glass fiber post and metal post. No relationship between the displacement of prosthetic dental system and type of material used was uncovered and by comparing the type of fracture with the restoration material used. However, a greater number of favorable fractures were observed in the glass fiber group whereas most of the fractures in the endocrown and metal post groups were unfavorable.

CONCLUSION: Endocrown displays better resistance to fracture compared to conventional post and core restorations. In addition, endocrown did not show more displacement or cause more unfavorable fractures than the conventional restorations. This restoration may represent a reliable alternative for restoring a damaged, endodontically treated tooth.