Evaluation of the Mechanical Properties of 3D-Printed Post and Core Systems

Purpose: To evaluate and compare the fracture resistance and elastic modulus of 3D-printed post and core systems and fiber posts and composite cores. Materials and Methods: Endodontic treatment was performed on 30 mandibular premolars, and post space preparation was performed. The teeth were then randomly divided into two groups (n = 15 per group): the 3D- printed (3DP) group and the fiber post and composite core (FPC) group. In the FPC group, fiber posts (Cytec Blanco 43.604, Hahnenkratt) were bonded with resin cement (RelyX U200, 3M), and the composite core dimension was standardized with a silicone index. In the 3DP group, the impression of the post space for each specimen was taken with pattern resin (Pattern Resin, GC America), and the coronal core was produced with the same silicone index. The impressions of the posts and cores were scanned, and then the custom post and core structures were fabricated from permanent crown resin material (Permanent Crown Resin, Formlabs) with a 3D printer (Form3B, Formlabs). Specimens were subjected to load tests with a universal testing machine (M500-25AT, Testometric). After fracture occurred, the fracture force and elastic modulus were calculated. The data were analyzed by independent sample t test (alpha =.05) Results: There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups in terms of peak fracture force (P =.626) and elastic modulus (P =.125), and no catastrophic root fractures were observed in either group. Conclusions: The fracture resistance of endodontically treated teeth was not significantly influenced by the post material. 3D-printed, custom-made resin posts were as effective as fiber glass posts with regard to fracture resistance.