Transmission of light through fiber-reinforced composite posts

Abstract

The aim of this in vitro study was to explore light transmission through an individually formed fiber-reinforced composite (FRC) post compared with two prefabricated FRC posts. Three different glass FRC posts from different manufacturers were used: two groups included prefabricated glass FRC posts (RelyX and GC Fiber Posts) and one group consisted of individually formed E-glass FRC posts with semi-interpenetrating polymer network (semi-IPN) polymer matrix (everStick Post). Various lengths of posts and light-protected cylinders were made. The specimens were light-polymerized on the test tray of a light radiance testing device (MARC Resin Calibrator). Light transmission in the direction of fibers was registered. Light transmission decreased with increasing post length (p≤0.001; ANOVA) up to 12 mm in all post groups. The individually formed FRC post showed highest light transmission in all cylinder lengths (p<0.001) compared to prefabricated FRC posts, which could benefit polymerization of post material and luting cement.