Effect of luting cement and thermomechanical loading on retention of glass fibre posts in root canals

ObjectivesTo evaluate the effect of luting cement and thermomechanical loading on the retention of glass fibre posts in root canals.MethodsOne hundred and forty-four single-rooted human premolars were endodontically treated and restored with RelyX Fibre Posts. The teeth were divided into four groups according to the cements used (Fuji I, Fuji CEM, RelyX Unicem and RelyX ARC). Each group was further divided into two subgroups according to the method of ageing (immediately tested and after thermomechanical loading). Bond strength was evaluated using a pull-out test. Microleakage was examined quantitatively with dye penetration. The dentine–cement-post bonding interface was assessed using scanning electron microscopy. Data were analysed with two-way ANOVA (pull-out test) and Kruskal–Wallis analysis (microleakage).ResultsThe pull-out bond strength and microleakage were significantly affected by the type of cement and ageing. Although RelyX ARC showed the highest bond strength before thermomechanical loading (p < 0.05), the sealing ability of this cement was worse than those exhibited in Fuji CEM and RelyX Unicem (p < 0.05). After thermomechanical loading, pull-out strengths of Fuji I and Fuji CEM were significantly increased, whereas that of RelyX ARC group significantly decreased (p < 0.05). The sealing ability of Fuji CEM was significantly better than the two resin cement groups (p < 0.05) after ageing.ConclusionFuji CEM demonstrates increased pull-out strength after thermomechanical loading and favourable sealing ability compared with the other cements.Clinical significanceResin-modified glass ionomer cements have the potential benefit of achieving long-term retention when used for luting glass fibre post to root canal dentine. So it may be recommended for the cementation of glass fibre post in clinics.