OBJEVTIVETo evaluate the effect of different restoration methods on fracture resistance of endodontically treated teeth.

METHODSFifty intact extracted maxillary first premolars were randomly divided into 5 groups. Medial-occlusal cavity models were established in all the test groups (B-E) according to the same standard, followed by treatments with defect exposure only, defect filling with light cured composite resin, indirect resin inlays, or light cured composite resin combined with Biosplint fiber. Each specimen was tested using a universal test machine at 1.00 mm/min until fracture and the fracture load was recorded. The load angle was 45 degree to the long axis of the teeth, and the load was pointed to the middle of the lingual surface on the buccal cusp. The fracture resistance was analyzed statistically.

RESULTSThe mean load to cause fracture of the samples in each group group A to E was 1.27∓0.41, 0.23∓0.17, 0.55∓0.31, 0.89∓0.40, and 0.98∓0.34 kN, respectively, showing significant differences between the groups.

CONCLUSIONThe fracture resistance of the teeth is reduced after endodontic therapy, but can be increased significantly by restoration with composite resin inlay or light cured composite resin combined with Biosplint fiber.