Comparative evaluation of the compressive strength of two different post systems in primary anterior teeth restored with pediatric zirconia crowns

Abstract

Background: In cases where there is an extensive loss of crown structure, these treatments require intracanal posts placement for retention as occlusal forces make the tooth structure weak and prone to fracture. Thus, restoration of primary anterior teeth, followed by post placement and cementation with pediatric zirconia crowns helps withstand masticatory forces to a greater extent.

Aim: This in vitro study evaluates the compressive strength of two different post systems in the primary anterior teeth, restored with pediatric zirconia crowns.

Materials and methods: The present study was an in vitro, experimental, comparative study, with a study sample selected using a convenience sampling method. Forty-five primary anterior teeth were obturated and restored with enhanced omega-shaped loop and reinforced glass-fiber posts were cemented with pediatric zirconia crowns. The compressive strength and the type of fracture were evaluated for each group.

Results: This study demonstrated that the glass-fiber posts had a higher compressive strength, although omega-shaped posts showed a higher presence of favorable fracture.

Conclusion: Retentive omega-shaped loops and reinforced glass-fiber posts were both capable of withstanding high fracture loads. The addition of cemented pediatric zirconia crown on decayed primary anterior teeth restored with post systems helped withstand the load to a greater extent.

Keywords: Compressive strength; omega-shaped posts; pediatric zirconia crowns; reinforced glass-fiber posts; retentive post.