FRACTURE STRENGTH EVALUATION OF TEETH WITH DIFFERENT DESIGNS OF ENDODONTIC ACCESS CAVITIES

Abstract

Aim of the study To compare the influence of three types of endodontic access cavities: conventional, conservative and ultraconservative on the mechanical resistance of endodontically treated teeth. The increase of fracture risk and the advantages of each design were also evaluated. Material and methods Twenty recently extracted sound molars were included. Teeth were randomly divided into 4 groups of 5 teeth each, as follows: Group 1. control group (no access cavity), Group 2. conventional access, Group 3. conservative access, Group 4. ultraconservative (ninja) access. After complete endodontic treatment of Groups 2-4 followed by their adhesive coronal restoration with composite resins, all teeth were mechanically tested for fracture resistance. Results Increased fracture resistance was registered when conservative or ultraconservative access was performed, comparative to the conventional one. The number of restorable fractures was also significantly higher in these groups. Conclusions Preservation of dentinal structure during access cavity increases the fracture resistance of teeth with endodontic treatment.

Keywords

• access cavity
• conservative design.
• fracture strength
• restorable fracture