Mechanical properties and ultrastructural characteristics of a glass fiber-reinforced composite
García Barbero, A.E.; Vera González, V.; García Barbero, E.; Aliaga Vera, I.
American Journal of Dentistry 28(3): 161-166
2015
ISSN/ISBN: 0894-8275 PMID: 26201228 Document Number: 684073
To examine the ultrastructural characteristics of a fiber-reinforced composite (FRC) and its behavior in vitro as a framework for fixed partial dentures (FPDs). A total of 40 specimens were prepared using extracted teeth fixed in methacrylate blocks as supports for the FPD, then the specimens were divided into four groups depending on whether a retaining box was used to fix the FPD to the support teeth, and on whether a composite pontic was assembled on top of the fibers. Fracture testing was performed in a universal testing machine (1 mm/minute). Fracture strength values and failure types were statistically compared for each group. Using retaining boxes did not improve the mechanical behavior of the restorative system. The weakest element of the system was the composite tooth constructed on top of the FRC.