Evaluation of different fibers and biodentine as alternates to crown coverage for endodontically treated molars: An in vitro study

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study is to evaluate the fracture resistance of newer restorative materials that could serve as an alternate to crown coverage. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty extracted human mandibular molar teeth were selected for this study and were divided into four groups (n = 10). All the teeth in the experimental groups (Group 2–4) were subjected to access cavity preparation with roughly 1.5 mm of tooth structure remaining throughout the circumference. Group 1: Intact teeth used as control. Group 2: Access cavities reinforced with biodentine. Group 3: Inner circumference of access cavities reinforced with polyethylene fiber and nano-hybrid composite. Group 4: Access cavities were reinforced with fiber reinforced composite. All the teeth were subjected to fracture resistance using universal testing machine. RESULTS: The results of the study were evaluated statistically using one-way ANOVA and Tukey post hoc test. Group 2 demonstrated the least mean values of fracture resistance and was significantly different from the control and other experimental groups. Statistically significant difference among Groups 1, 3, and 4 was not found. CONCLUSION: Within the limitation of this in vitro study, it can be concluded that fiber reinforced composite and polyethylene fibers with nanohybrid composite could serve as an alternate to crown coverage.