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CHAPTER 22 Restoration of the Endodontically Treated Tooth DIDIER DIETSCHI, SERGE BOUILLAGUET, and AVISHAI SADAN CHAPTER OUTLINE SPECIAL FEATURES OF ENDODONTICALLY Full Crowns TREATED TEETH...

CHAPTER 22 Restoration of the Endodontically Treated Tooth DIDIER DIETSCHI, SERGE BOUILLAGUET, and AVISHAI SADAN CHAPTER OUTLINE SPECIAL FEATURES OF ENDODONTICALLY Full Crowns TREATED TEETH Luting Cements Compositional Changes in Nonvital Teeth and Influence PRETREATMENT EVALUATION AND TREATMENT of Endodontic Therapy STRATEGY Dentin Structure and Properties of Endodontically Pretreatment Evaluation Treated Teeth Treatment Strategy Fracture Resistance and Tooth Stiffness of CLINICAL PROCEDURES Endodontically Treated Teeth Tooth Preparation Esthetic Changes in Nonvital and Endodontically Post Placement Treated Teeth Adhesive Procedures RESTORATIVE MATERIALS AND OPTIONS Partial Restorations Direct Composite Restorations Foundation Restorations for Full Crowns Indirect Restorations: Composite or Ceramic Onlays Crown Preparation and Temporary Restoration and Overlays showed no difference in moisture content between vital and SPECIAL FEATURES OF ENDODONTICALLY nonvital teeth.129 No difference in collagen cross-linkage TREATED TEETH was found between vital and nonvital dentin.147 There is no Endodontically treated teeth are structurally different from other evidence of chemical alteration due to the removal of vital teeth; major changes include altered tissue physical char- pulpal tissue. acteristics, loss of tooth structure, and possibly also discolor- Sodium hypochlorite and chelators such as ethylenedi- ation. Tissue modifications must therefore be analyzed at amine tetra-acetic acid (EDTA), cyclohexane-1,2-diaminetetra- different levels, including tooth composition, dentin micro- acetic acid (CDTA), ethylene glycol-bis-(β-amino-ethyl ether) structure and tooth macrostructrure. It is fundamental to N,N,N′,N′-tetra-acetic acid (EGTA), and calcium hydroxide understand the implication of such features on tooth biome- (Ca[OH]2) commonly used for canal irrigation and disinfec- chanics, since they will largely influence restorative approach tion interact with root dentin, either with mineral content and means (Table 22-1). Numerous in vitro studies dealing (chelators) or organic substrate (sodium hypochlorite).82,115,122 with the complexity of the nonvital tooth substrate are reported Chelators mainly deplete calcium by complex formation and in the literature; ultimately, in vivo trials describe the global also affect noncollagenous proteins (NCP), leading to dentin effect of tissue qualitative and quantitative changes on restora- erosion and softening.82,88,151 Sodium hypochlorite supposedly tion, long-term behavior, and survival. demonstrates a proteolytic action by extensive fragmentation of long peptide chains such as collagen.72 These alterations are Compositional Changes in Nonvital Teeth likely to fragilize dentin and root structure and reduce adhe- and Influence of Endodontic Therapy sion to this substrate. The loss of pulpal vitality is accompanied by a slight change in tooth moisture content. This loss of moisture (9%) is attrib- Dentin Structure and Properties in Nonvital uted to a change in free water but not in bonded water.69,73 and Endodontically Treated Teeth This alteration was associated with a slight change in values It is important to know about the normal variations in dentin for the Young modulus and proportional limit.79 However, no physical properties, which must be differentiated from altera- decrease in compressive and tensile strength values was associ- tions related to loss of vitality or endodontic treatment. For ated with this change in water content.79 Only one study instance, dentin microhardness and elasticity actually varies 777 778 PART III RELATED CLINICAL TOPICS TABL E 2 2 - 1 is also believed that the age-related reduction of pulp volume, Specific Tissue Modifications and Possible progressively replaced by secondary or tertiary dentin, could account for a reduced fracture resistance of aged, nonvital Clinical Implications Following Loss teeth; this assumption is evaluated in the literature. The only of Vitality or Endodontic Treatment impact of age-related tissue changes are the aforementioned Possible Clinical reduction in fracture toughness and fatigue lifetime attributed Alteration Level Specific Changes Implication to dentin sclerosis.93 The chemicals used for canal irrigation and disinfection, as Composition Collagen structure Increased tooth Tooth moisture fragility already mentioned, interact with mineral and organic contents Mineral composition Reduced adhesion and then reduce dentin elasticity and flexural strength to a and content to substrate significant extent,68,164 as well as microhardness.34,81,153 On the contrary, disinfectants like eugenol and formocresol increase Dentin structure Elasticity modulus Increased tooth and behavior fragility dentin tensile strength by way of protein coagulation and Tensile and shear chelation with hydroxyapatite (eugenol). Dentin hardness, strength however, did not prove to be influenced by the latter Microhardness products.118 Tooth Resistance to Increased tooth In conclusion, possible decrease in tooth strength can be macrostructure deformation fragility attributed to dentin aging and to a smaller extent to dentin Resistance to Reduced retention/ alteration by endodontic irrigants. fracture stability of the Resistance to fatigue prosthesis Fracture Resistance and Tooth Stiffness of Nonvital and Endodontically Treated Teeth The major changes in tooth biomechanics are attributed to the loss of tissue following decay, fracture, or cavity preparation, including the access cavity prior to endodontic therapy. between peritubular and intertubular dentin and depends on The loss of tooth structure following a conservative access tooth location. Peritubular dentin presents an elasticity cavity preparation affects tooth stiffness by only 5%.177 The modulus of 29.8 GPa, whereas intertubular dentin ranges from influence of subsequent canal instrumentation and obturation 17.7 GPa (close to pulp) to 21.1 GPa (close to root lead only to a slight reduction in the resistance to fracture177 surface).74,91,107 Most if not all the decrease in hardness on and ultimately have little effect on tooth biomechanics.144,177 approaching the pulp can be attributed to changes in hardness Practically, one can expect alteration of tooth biomechanics of the intertubular dentin.90,91 Overall dentin elasticity modulus only in cases of nonconservative canal preparation or through is considered to be in the range of 16.5 to 18.5 GPa16,33,52 even the chemical or structural alteration triggered by endodontic though variations can be observed due to the measuring irrigants, as previously mentioned. methods.92,127,145 In fact, the largest reduction in tooth stiffness results from The changes in mineral density due to the variation in the additional preparation, especially the loss of marginal ridges. number and diameter of tubules within the tooth may also The literature reports 20% to 63% and 14% to 44% reduction explain variations in the properties of dentin. It was shown in tooth stiffness following occlusal and MOD cavity prepara- that dentin hardness values are inversely related to dentin tions, respectively.45,98,144 It was shown that an endodontic tubule density.130 Ultra microindentation measurements also access cavity combined with an MOD preparation results in demonstrated significantly higher values for hardness and elas- maximum tooth fragilization. The cavity depth, isthmus width, ticity modulus when forces were parallel to the tubules rather and configuration are therefore highly critical to the reduction than perpendicular.139 Differences in maximum strength and in tooth stiffness and risk of fracture (Fig. 22-1).78,89,102,128 compressive strength were also found to vary according to The presence of residual tissue in the cervical area (which tubule orientation.127 The ultimate tensile strength (UTS) of comprises the ferrule for restorations) and a larger amount human dentin is lowest when the tensile force is parallel to of residual tissue in general increase tooth resistance to frac- tubule orientation, showing the influence of dentin micro- ture. It actually allows the axial walls of the crown to encircle structure and anisotropy of the tissue.99 No difference was the tooth, providing restoration retention and stabilization found in the Young modulus of aged, transparent dentin (also and reducing cervical tensile stresses.7,24,169 Crown prepara- called sclerotic) and normal dentin,20,93,175 but the mineral con- tions with as little as 1 mm coronal extension of dentin above centration significantly increases and crystallite size is slightly the margin doubles the fracture resistance of preparations, smaller in transparent dentin, in relation with closure of the compared to those where the core terminates on a flat surface tubule lumens. Transparent dentin, unlike normal dentin, immediately above the margin109,169; therefore, a minimal exhibits almost no yielding before failure. Its fracture tough- 1-mm ferrule is considered necessary to stabilize the ness is also lowered by about 20% while the fatigue lifetime is restoration.169 However, the widths of preparation shoulder deleteriously affected.93 and crown margin do not appear to influence fracture However, no or only minor differences in microhardness strength.2 values were found between vital and nonvital dentin of con- It is critical to understand that the most important part of tralateral teeth after periods varying from 0.2 to 10 years.100,161 the restored tooth is the tooth itself, and no restorative material The literature does not support a widely held belief that attri- or combination of materials will perfectly substitute for tooth butes particular weakness or brittleness to nonvital dentin. It structure. CHAPTER 22 Restoration of the Endodontically Treated Tooth 779 A B D C F E H G FIG. 22-1 The negative impact of poor initial biomechanical status on restoration success. A-B, Preoperative radiographic views following the removal of the old metallic foundation. C, A new amalgam core, using post and self-anchorage into mesial root structure, was performed. D, Prosthetic restorations on working model. E, Full arch view after 3 years. F, The tooth is symptomatic due to furcation involvement and periapical lesion. G, This untreatable tooth was finally extracted and replaced by an implant. H, Eight-year postoperative radiograph showing a stable situation. Other teeth with less extensive biomechanical damage overcame functional stresses. 780 PART III RELATED CLINICAL TOPICS According to the amount of tissue to be replaced, restora- tions of endodontically treated teeth will rely on different materials and clinical procedures. As a general rule, most structurally damaged teeth should be restored with an artificial crown. Although the use of a crown built on post and core is a traditional approach, others have advocated the use of direct composite resins for restoring small defects in endodontically treated teeth. More recently, indirect restorations such as over- lays or endocrowns made of composite resins or ceramics have also been used. The selection of appropriate restorative materi- als and techniques is dictated by the amount of remaining tooth structure. This is far more relevant to the long-term prognosis of endodontically treated teeth than any properties of post, core, or crown materials. FIG. 22-2 Severe discoloration can significantly disturb esthetics, even in the lateral area of the smile. When not treatable with bleaching Direct Composite Restorations agents or veneers, this condition might justify tooth preparation for a When a minimal amount of coronal tooth structure has been full crown. lost after endodontic therapy, a direct resin composite restora- tion may be indicated. Composite resins are a mixture of a polymerized resin network reinforced by inorganic fillers. Contemporary composites have compressive strengths of Esthetic Changes in Nonvital about 280 MPa, and the Young modulus of composite resins and Endodontically Treated Teeth is generally about 10 to 16 GPa, which is close to that of Color change and darkening of nonvital teeth is a common dentin.140 clinical observation (Fig. 22-2), and improper endodontic When properly cured, resin composites are highly esthetic, techniques can contribute to discoloration. For instance, inad- exhibit high mechanical properties, and can reinforce the equate cleaning and shaping can leave necrotic tissue in remaining tooth structure through bonding mechanisms. Typi- coronal pulp horns, resulting in tooth darkening. As well, root cally, 500 to 800 mW/cm2 of blue light for 30 to 40 seconds is canal filling materials (gutta-percha and root canal cements) necessary to polymerize an increment of composite which retained in the coronal aspect of anterior teeth can detract from must be 1 to 3 mm thick. Unfortunately, the shrinkage that the esthetic appearance. Opaque substances also adversely accompanies polymerization of contemporary composite resins affect the color and translucency of most uncrowned teeth. remains a significant problem to the long-term success of these Biochemically altered dentin modifies tooth color and appear- restorations. The use of an incremental filling technique, ance. It is generally accepted that organic substances present which helps to reduce shrinkage stresses during polymeriza- in dentin (e.g., hemoglobin) might play an important role in tion, is highly recommended. The amount of shrinkage will this color change and also food and drink pigment penetration also depend on the shape of the cavity preparation and the triggered by the absence of pulpal pressure. However, the ratio of bonded to unbonded (or free) surfaces.37,55 This so- respective contribution of these two phenomena and precise called C-factor is a clinically relevant predictor of the risk of physicochemical mechanisms leading to discoloration are debonding and leakage; restorations with high C-factors (>3.0) poorly understood or described in the literature.35,71,137 are at greatest risk for debonding.183 In other words, a direct Thin gingival tissue or in general, thin biotype is consid- composite restoration may be indicated when only one proxi- ered a negative factor for esthetic outcome of restorative and mal surface of the tooth has been lost; using an incremental prosthetic treatment of discolored teeth.116,117,124 filling technique is mandatory. Endodontic treatment and subsequent restoration of teeth Classically, direct composite restorations have been placed in the esthetic zone require careful control of procedures and in anterior teeth that have not lost tooth structure beyond the materials to retain a translucent, natural appearance. It is endodontic access preparation. In such cases, the placement of therefore strongly recommended to avoid the use of potentially a direct composite restoration offers an immediate sealing of staining endodontic cements and to clean all material residues the tooth, which prevents coronal leakage and recontamina- in the pulpal chamber and access cavity. tion of the root canal system with bacteria. In vitro studies have demonstrated that the fracture resistance of small bonded res- torations is nearly as great as that of intact teeth.61,142 RESTORATIVE MATERIALS AND OPTIONS Although direct composite resins may also be used for Endodontic treatment can result in significant loss and weak- small restorations in posterior teeth, they are contraindicated ening of tooth structure. Tooth structure lost during endodon- when more than a third of coronal tissue has been lost. In one tic treatment increases the risk of crown fracture, with fatigue study,142 it was reported that the resistance to fracture of end- mechanisms mediating the fracture of roots over time. Restora- odontically treated teeth is reduced by 69% in cases where tions of endodontically treated teeth are designed to (1) protect MOD cavities are present.143 Under such conditions, a direct the remaining tooth from fracture, (2) prevent reinfection of composite restoration may not be appropriate to prevent the the root canal system, and (3) replace the missing tooth tooth structure from fracture and reinfection. Furthermore, structure. resin composite materials may require the use of reinforcing CHAPTER 22 Restoration of the Endodontically Treated Tooth 781 in vitro fibers to increase their mechanical resistance. Although materials (resin composites). They concluded that the higher most studies on the clinical performance of direct composite resilience of resin composite restorations acts positively against restorations were conducted on vital teeth, a recent clinical the risk of periodontal bone resorption by reducing the amount report indicates that direct in vitro fiber-reinforced composite of force transferred to root dentin.4 restorations may represent a valuable alternative to conven- tional restorations of endodontically treated teeth.38 On the Full Crowns contrary, inserting an in vitro fiber post in the root canal of an When a significant amount of coronal tooth structure has been endodontically treated tooth before bonding a direct MOD lost by caries, restorative procedures, and endodontics, a full restoration significantly reduces its fracture resistance com- crown may be the restoration of choice. In a few cases, the pared to the same composite restoration without a post.167 crown can be directly built on the remaining coronal structure which has been prepared accordingly (see Core Materials Indirect Restorations: Composite or Ceramic heading). More frequently, the cementation of a post inside the Onlays and Overlays root canal is necessary to provide retention for the core mate- Ceramic or resin composite onlays and endocrowns can also rial and the crown.172 The core is anchored to the tooth by be used to restore endodontically treated teeth. Whereas over- extension into the root canal through the post and replaces lays incorporate a cusp or cusps by covering the missing tissue, missing coronal structure. The crown covers the core and endocrowns combine the post in the canal, the core, and the restores the esthetics and function of the tooth. crown in one component.94 Both onlays and endocrowns allow An additional role of the post and core is to protect the for conservation of remaining tooth structure, whereas the crown margins from deformation under function and thereby alternative would be to completely eliminate cusps and perim- to prevent coronal leakage. Because most endodontic sealers eter walls for restoration with a full crown.62 Onlays and over- do not completely seal the root canal space, the coronal seal lays are generally constructed in the laboratory from either provided by the placement of a post and core will positively hybrid resin composite or ceramics. influence the outcome of the endodontic treatment.155 The Ceramics are a material of choice for long-term esthetic post’s ability to anchor the core is also an important factor for indirect restorations because their translucency and light successful reconstruction, since the core and the post are transmission mimic enamel. Whereas traditional feldspathic usually fabricated of different materials. Finally, the luting porcelains were sintered from a slurry, new ceramic materials material used to cement the post, the core, and the crown to may be cast, machined, pressed, or slip-cast in addition to the tooth will also influence the longevity of the restoration. being sintered. New materials are either variations of feld- The post, the core, and their luting or bonding agents together spathic porcelains (e.g., In-Ceram, Cerec, IPS Empress) or may form a foundation restoration to support the future crown.112 be fabricated from other ceramic systems, including alumina, zirconia, or silica.3,39 Among these newer compositions is The Foundation Restoration: General Considerations lithium disilicate, which offers high strength, high fracture Although there are many materials and techniques to fabricate toughness, and a high degree of translucency. Physical proper- a foundation restoration, no combination of materials can sub- ties of these materials have improved to the point where they stitute for tooth structure. As a general rule, the more tooth can survive high stress-bearing situations such as posterior structure that remains, the better the long-term prognosis of restorations in endodontically treated teeth.46,77 Researchers the restoration. The coronal tooth structure located above the have examined 140 partial Cerec restorations (Vita MKII, feld- gingival level will help to create a ferrule.6,85,106,134 The ferrule spathic porcelain) adhesively cemented to endodontically is formed by the walls and margins of the crown, encasing at treated teeth and found this treatment approach satisfactory least 2 to 3 mm of sound tooth structure. A properly executed after an observation period of 55 months.10 Their results indi- ferrule significantly reduces the incidence of fracture in end- cate that survival rates are higher for molars than for odontically treated teeth by reinforcing the tooth at its external premolars. surface and dissipating forces that concentrate at the narrowest Onlays, overlays, and endocrowns can also be fabricated circumference of the tooth.101,181 A longer ferrule increases from resin composites processed in the laboratory. Using fracture resistance significantly.86 The ferrule also resists lateral various combinations of light, pressure, and vacuum, these forces from posts and leverage from the crown in function and fabrication techniques are claimed to increase the conversion increases the retention and resistance of the restoration. To be rate of the polymer and consequently the mechanical proper- successful, the crown and crown preparation together must ties of the restorative material. Other investigations have meet five requirements: described the application of glass fiber–reinforced composite 1. The ferrule (dentin axial wall height) must be at least 2 to endocrowns on premolars and molars as single restorations or 3 mm. as abutment for fixed partial dentures.62,63 A recent in vitro 2. The axial walls must be parallel. study by another research team indicates that composite inlays 3. The restoration must completely encircle the tooth. can partially restore the resistance to fracture of endodontically 4. The margin must be on solid tooth structure. treated molars and prevent catastrophic fractures after 5. The crown and crown preparation must not invade the loading.29 Other investigators reported that composite resin attachment apparatus. MZ100 increased the fatigue resistance of overlay-type restora- Root anatomy can also have significant influence over post tions in endodontically treated molars when compared to por- placement and selection. Root curvature, furcations, develop- celain MKII.103 Another recent study used three-dimensional mental depressions, and root concavities observed at the exter- finite element analysis to estimate bone resorption around nal surface of the root are all likely to be reproduced inside endocrowns made up of high- (alumina) or low-elastic modulus the root canal. Within the same root, the shape of the canal 782 PART III RELATED CLINICAL TOPICS will vary between the cervical level and the apical foramen.66 less than nonrigid posts, they can limit movement of the core As a result, severe alteration of the natural shape of the canal and possible disruption of the crown margins and cement seal. is often necessary to adapt a circular post inside the root. This However, the force must go somewhere. Force from a stiff post increases the risk of root perforation, especially in mesial roots is transmitted to the root, next to the apex of the post. An of maxillary and mandibular molars which exhibit deep con- attempt to strengthen a weak root by adding a stiff post can cavities on the furcal surface of their mesial root.17,95 The tooth instead make the root weaker as a result of the force concentra- is also weakened if root dentin is sacrificed to place a larger- tion of a stiff rod in a more flexible material. Stress concentra- diameter post. A study using three-dimensional electronic tion in the post/root complex can lead to the self-destructive speckle-pattern interferometry (ESPI) evaluated the effects of process of cracking and fracturing. Root fracture is particularly root canal preparation and post placement on the rigidity of a risk in teeth with minimal remaining tooth structure to human roots.99 ESPI has the major advantage of being able to support a ferrule. assess tooth deformation in real time and can be used repeat- Roots also flex under force, which is a function of both the edly on the same root because of the nondestructive nature of modulus of elasticity of dentin and the diameter of the root. the test. Study results indicate that root deformability is sig- Dentin is relatively flexible, and posts can be flexible or stiff. nificantly increased after the preparation of a post space. Thus, Although no material can behave exactly like dentin, a post preservation of root structure is also a guiding principle in the with functional behavior similar to that of dentin is beneficial decision to use a post, the selection of the post, and the pre- when the post must be placed next to dentin. Posts have been paration of the post space. This is a reason why not every developed with a modulus of elasticity closer to dentin than endodontically treated tooth needs a post and why more con- that offered by traditional metal posts. But posts are signifi- servative approaches that do not rely on the use of a post are cantly narrower than roots, and the actual deflection of a post currently being developed. within dentin is a function of both the modulus of elasticity However, a post may be used in the root of a structurally and the diameter. The modulus of elasticity of various posts, damaged tooth in which additional retention is needed for the compared with that of dentin, represents only one aspect of core and coronal restoration. Posts should provide as many of flexion. the following clinical features as possible: In summary, an ideal post would be resilient enough to ◆ Maximal protection of the root from fracture cushion an impact by stretching elastically, thereby reducing ◆ Maximal retention within the root and retrievability the resulting stress to the root. It would then return to normal ◆ Maximal retention of the core and crown without permanent distortion. At the same time, this ideal post ◆ Maximal protection of the crown margin seal from coronal would be stiff enough not to distort, permanently bend, or leakage structurally fail under mastication forces. Finally, the perfect ◆ Pleasing esthetics, when indicated post would combine the ideal level of flexibility and strength ◆ High radiographic visibility in a narrow-diameter structure, which is dictated by root canal ◆ Biocompatibility morphology. Current post systems are designed to provide the From a mechanical point of view, an endodontic post best compromise between the desired properties and inherent should not break, should not break the root, and should not limitations of available materials. distort or allow movement of the core and crown. An ideal post would have an optimal combination of resilience, stiffness, Why Roots Fracture flexibility, and strength. Resilience is the ability to deflect elasti- Structures subjected to low but repeated forces can appear to cally under force without permanent damage. It is a valuable fracture suddenly for no apparent reason. This phenomenon, quality in endodontic posts, but too much flexibility in a also known as fatigue failure, occurs when a material or a tissue narrow post compromises its ability to retain the core and is subjected to cyclic loading. Fatigue may be characterized as crown under functional forces. Stiffness describes a material’s a progressive failure phenomenon that proceeds by the initia- ability to resist deformation when stressed. The stiffness of a tion and propagation of cracks; many failures of teeth or mate- material is an inherent physical property of that material, rials observed in the mouth are fatigue-related. Because teeth regardless of size. However, the actual flexibility of a post are subjected to fluctuating cycles of loading and unloading depends both on the diameter of a specific post and on the during mastication, fatigue failure of dentin, posts, cores, modulus of elasticity of the post’s material. Posts with a lower crown margins, or adhesive components are all likely to modulus of elasticity are more flexible than posts of the same occur.160 Mechanical loading will favor the propagation of diameter with a higher modulus of elasticity. Posts made of microcracks that will progress from the coronal to the apical non-stiff materials (low modulus of elasticity) are more resil- region of the tooth. ient, absorb more impact force, and transmit less force to the Initial failure of crown margins from fatigue loading is root than stiff posts, but low-modulus posts fail at lower levels clinically undetectable. However, when measured in vitro, of force than high-modulus posts.105,126,150 early failure resulted in significant leakage of crown margins, Excessive flexing of the post and micromovement of the extending between the tooth, restoration, and post space.48 core are particular risks in teeth with minimal remaining tooth Particularly in teeth with minimal remaining tooth structure, structure, because these teeth lack their own cervical stiffness fatigue can cause endodontic posts to bend permanently or as a result of the missing dentin. Post flexion can also distort break, or it can cause a fiber-matrix complex to disintegrate. and open crown margins. Open margins can result in poten- Fatigue failure of nonvital teeth restored with a post is tially devastating caries or endodontic leakage and apical rein- more catastrophic because it may result in a complete fracture fection. Extensive caries extending into the root can be as of the root. A post placed into a dentin root will function irreparable as root fracture. Because rigid posts flex and bend physically like any structural rod anchored in another material. CHAPTER 22 Restoration of the Endodontically Treated Tooth 783 A B FIG. 22-3 A, Stress distribution within a metallic post and core foundation and residual tooth structure, according to photoelastic and FEM studies. The post is cemented and usually penetrates the apical portion of the root. Functional stresses accumulate inside the foundation, slightly around the post and further inside the canal, around the apex of the post; there is less stress buildup in the cervical area compared to that with a fiber post (as shown in Fig. 22-3, B). This configuration more ideally protects the coronocervical structures but when failing, results in severe untreatable root fractures. B, Stress distribution within a fiber post/composite foundation and residual tooth structure, according to photoelastic and FEM studies. The post is bonded to the canal walls and penetrates the canal less apically. Functional stresses mainly accumulate around the post in the cervical area. This configuration protects the cervical area less efficiently but tends to prevent untreatable root fractures. The presence of a ferrule is mandatory. (Adapted from Dietschi D, Duc O, Krejci I, Sadan A: Biomechanical considerations for the restoration of endodontically treated teeth: a systematic review of the literature—Part 1. Composition and micro- and macrostructure alterations. Quintessence Int 38:733–743, 2007.) This means that the forces applied on the post are transmitted (e.g., the endodontic post and core material) are described to the root dentin with characteristic patterns depending on individually. the modulus of elasticity of both the post and the dentin. If the post has a higher modulus than the dentin, the stress con- POSTS centration is adjacent to the bottom of the post (Fig. 22-3). The large number of post designs and materials available on This is evident in clinical cases of root fracture originating at the market reflects the absence of consensus in that field. Based the apex of a rigid post. on what manufacturers or clinicians consider the most impor- When the stiffness of the endodontic post is similar to that tant properties, posts can be fabricated from metal (gold, tita- of dentin, stresses are not concentrated in the dentin adjacent nium, stainless steel), ceramic, or fiber-reinforced resins. As a to the apex of the post but rather dissipated by both the coronal general rule, a post needs retention and resistance. Whereas and the root dentin (see Fig. 22-3). A resilient post can also post retention refers to the ability of a post to resist vertical prevent a sudden blow by stretching elastically, which reduces forces, resistance refers to the ability of the tooth/post combina- the transient forces against the tooth, but a post that is too tion to withstand lateral and rotational forces. Resistance is elastic becomes too flexible for retaining a core and a crown influenced by the presence of a ferrule, the post’s length and when the tooth cannot do so on its own. A resilient post that rigidity, and the presence of antirotational features. A restora- is overloaded fails with less force than a stiffer post. This limits tion lacking resistance form is not likely to be a long-term the amount of resilience that can be designed into a post. success, regardless of the retentiveness of the post. Direct Foundation Restorations Prefabricated Metallic Posts Prefabricated metallic posts are In general, the evolution of foundation restorations has been frequently used for the fabrication of a direct foundation res- to diminish invasiveness and eliminate some components in toration. These posts are classified several ways, including by selected cases. When a sufficient amount of tissue is present alloy composition, retention mode, and shape. Materials used at the periphery of the prepared tooth, a direct foundation to fabricate metallic posts include gold alloys, stainless steel, restoration is indicated. In the direct technique, a prefabricated or titanium alloys. Metallic posts are very strong, and with the post is cemented inside the root canal, and the core is built exception of the titanium alloys, very rigid.96 A recent study directly on the prepared tooth. For other clinical situations, an indicates that the flexural strength of stainless steel posts is indirect custom-cast post and core may be indicated. about 1430 MPa and that flexural modulus approximates Various materials can be used to fabricate a direct founda- 110 GPa.136 On the other hand, titanium posts are less rigid tion restoration. Although there is growing interest in using (66 GPa) but exhibit a flexural strength (1280 MPa) similar to resin-based materials such as resin composites or fiber- stainless steel. reinforced resin posts, more traditional materials such as The retention of prefabricated posts inside the root canal amalgam are still used for that purpose.28 For clarity, the com- is also essential for successful restorations. Two basic concepts ponents used for fabricating a direct foundation restoration have been used to promote the retention of endodontic posts: 784 PART III RELATED CLINICAL TOPICS active posts and passive posts. Active posts derive their primary It is generally accepted that bonding fiber posts to root retention directly from the root dentin by the use of threads. canal dentin can improve the distribution of forces applied Most active posts are threaded and are intended to be screwed along the root, thereby decreasing the risk of root fracture and into the walls of the root canal. A major concern about threaded contributing to the reinforcement of the remaining tooth struc- posts has been the potential for vertical root fracture during ture.13,19,58 A well-adapted adhesively cemented fiber post is placement. As the post is screwed into place, it introduces great considered the most retentive with the least stress generated stresses within the root, causing a wedging effect.171 Therefore, on the canal walls. In a retrospective study which evaluated it is generally accepted that the use of threaded posts should be three types of bonded fiber posts, investigators reported 3.2% avoided. Furthermore, the improved retention once offered by failure of 1306 fiber posts in recalls of 1 to 6 years.57 More threaded posts can now be achieved with adhesive luting recently, another study reported survival rates of 98.6% and cements (see later).123 Passive posts are passively placed in 96.8% for parallel-sided and tapered fiber posts, respectively, close contact to the dentin walls, and their retention primarily placed in anterior teeth covered with full-ceramic crowns after relies on the luting cement used for cementation. The shape a mean observation period of 5.3 years.163 of a passive post may be either tapered or parallel.146 A parallel post is more retentive than a tapered post but also requires Zirconia Posts Zirconia posts are composed of zirconium removal of more root dentin during the preparation of the post dioxide (ZrO2) partially stabilized with yttrium oxide and space. Parallel posts are reported to be less likely to cause root exhibit a high flexural strength. Zirconia posts are esthetic, fractures than tapered posts, although they are less conforming partially adhesive, very rigid, but also brittle. Zirconia posts to the original shape of the root.83,158,170 Unfortunately, modern cannot be etched, and available literature suggests that bonding techniques for root canal preparation use tapered nickel- resins to these materials is less predictable and requires sub- titanium (NiTi) rotary shaping files, which results in a very stantially different bonding methods than conventional ceram- wide tapered and unretentive canal exhibiting a significant ics.12 When a composite core is built on a zirconia post, core divergence from apical to coronal.152 Longer posts are often retention may also be a problem. Controversies exist about the necessary to accommodate this problem and offer adequate efficiency of airborne particle abrasion at establishing a durable retention; adequate length in the root canal is considered to be resin bond to zirconia posts treated or not treated with a cou- greater than 6 mm. When teeth are protected by crowns with pling agent.1,133 Overall, there are concerns about the rigidity an adequate ferrule, longer posts do not further increase frac- of zirconia posts, which tends to make those posts too brittle. ture resistance.84 Posts designed with mechanical locking fea- Other reports indicate that the rigidity of zirconia posts nega- tures in the heads and roughened surface texture can show tively affects the quality of the interface between the resin core better retention of the core.30 material and dentin when subjected to fatigue testing.41,44 Fiber Posts A fiber post consists of reinforcing fibers embed- CORE MATERIALS ded in a resin polymerized matrix. Monomers used to form the The core replaces carious, fractured, or missing coronal struc- resin matrix are typically bifunctional methacrylates (Bis- ture and helps to retain the final restoration. Desirable physical GMA, UDMA, TEGDMA), but epoxies have also been used. characteristics of a core include (1) high compressive and Common fibers in today’s fiber posts are made of carbon, glass, flexural strength, (2) dimensional stability, (3) ease of manipu- silica, or quartz but the type, volume content, and uniformity lation, (4) short setting time, and (5) the ability to bond to of the fibers and the matrix are proprietary and vary among both tooth and post. Core materials include composite resin, fiber post systems. These differences in the manufacturing cast metal or ceramic, amalgam, and sometimes glass ionomer process may reflect the large variations observed among differ- materials. The core is anchored to the tooth by extension into ent types of fiber posts subjected to a fatigue resistance test.67 the coronal aspect of the canal or through the endodontic post. Fibers are commonly 7 to 20 µm in diameter and are used in The importance of retention between the post, the core, and a number of different configurations, including braided, the tooth increases as remaining tooth structure decreases. woven, and longitudinal. The original fiber posts consisted of carbon fibers embedded in epoxy resin, but quartz-fiber posts Composite Resin Core Composite core materials take a are currently preferred for their favorable mechanical proper- number of strategies to enhance their strength and resistance; ties, esthetic qualities, and their ability to chemically bond metal may be added, filler levels may be greater, or faster- to the polymer matrix.51 A recent study indicates that the setting ionomers may be used.140 Composite core materials flexural strength of glass-, silica-, or quartz-fiber posts appro- have been shown to exhibit slightly better mechanical values ximates 1000 MPa and that flexural modulus is about 23 GPa.36 than conventional materials, but improvements are negligi- Current fiber posts are radiopaque and may also conduct the ble.184 However, they appear to be superior to silver- light for polymerization of resin-based luting cements. A light- glass-ionomer cement and amalgam.31 The advantages of transmitting post results in better polymerization of resin com- composite core resins are adhesive bonding to tooth structure posites in the apical area of simulated root canals, as measured and many posts, ease of manipulation, rapid setting, and trans- by hardness values.148,182 To enhance bonding at the post/core/ lucent or highly opaque formulations. Composite cores have cement interfaces, several physicochemical pretreatments such been shown to protect the strength of all-ceramic crowns as silanization or sand blasting of the post surface have been equally to amalgam cores. Bond strength of composite cores to described. Recent research indicates that silanization, hydro- dentin depends on a complete curing of the resin materials, so fluoric etching, and sandblasting (with 30 to 50 µm Al2O3) do dentin bonding agents must be chemically compatible with not modify the mechanical properties of different glass-, silica-, composite core materials. Self-cure composite resins require or quartz-fiber posts.5 self-cure adhesives and are mostly incompatible with light- CHAPTER 22 Restoration of the Endodontically Treated Tooth 785 cure adhesives.27 However, no adhesive has been shown to Glass Ionomer Core and Modified Glass Ionomer Core Glass completely eliminate microleakage at the margins of the resto- ionomer and resin-modified glass ionomer cements are adhe- ration.18 A degradation of the resin core or the marginal integ- sive materials useful for small buildups or to fill undercuts in rity of the crown can result in invasion of oral fluids. Therefore, prepared teeth. The rationale for using glass ionomer materials as with all buildup materials for decimated teeth, more than is based on their cariostatic effect resulting from fluoride 2 mm of sound tooth structure should remain at the margin release. However, their low strength and fracture toughness for optimal composite resin core function. result in brittleness, which contraindicates the use of glass Composite core materials can be used in association with ionomer buildups in thin anterior teeth or to replace unsup- metallic, fiber, or zirconia posts. This is frequently observed in ported cusps. They may be indicated in posterior teeth in the presence of structurally compromised teeth. They may which (1) a bulk of core material is possible, (2) significant provide some protection from root fracture in teeth restored sound dentin remains, and (3) caries control is indicated.180 with metal posts compared with amalgam or gold cores. Loos- Resin-modified glass ionomer materials are a combination ening of the post, core, and crown with composite core can of glass ionomer and composite resin technologies and have occur, but composite cores have been shown to fail more favor- properties of both materials. Resin-modified glass ionomers ably than amalgam or gold.135 A recent retrospective study of have moderate strength, greater than glass ionomers but less the clinical performance of fiber posts indicates that fiber posts than composite resins. As a core material, they are adequate and cores have a failure rate ranging between 7% and 11% after for moderate-sized buildups, but hygroscopic expansion can a service period of 7 to 11 years and that post loosening may cause fracture of ceramic crowns and fragilized roots.165 The also occur.56 Composite core materials are typically two-paste, bond to dentin is close to that of dentin-bonded composite self-cured composites, but light-curing materials are also avail- resin and significantly higher than traditional glass ionomers. able. The use of light-curing composite core materials generally Today, resin composites have replaced glass ionomer materials eliminates the risk of chemical incompatibility between adhe- for core fabrication. sives and self-curing resin core materials. Bonding light-cured resin composites to the irregular structure of the pulp chamber Indirect Foundation Restorations: Cast Post and Core and canal orifices might eliminate the need for a post when For many years, the cast metal post and core has been the sufficient tooth structure remains. Research indicates that traditional method for fabricating the foundation restoration bonding to the dentin walls of the pulp chamber is easier and of a prosthetic crown. Classically, smooth-sided, tapered posts superior to resin dentin bonds made on dentin canal walls.8 conforming to the taper of the root canal are fabricated from high noble alloys, although noble and base-metal classes of Amalgam Core Dental amalgam is a traditional core buildup dental alloys have also been used. Noble alloys used for post material with a long history of clinical success. Although there and core fabrication have high stiffness (approximately 80 to are many variations in the alloy’s composition, more recent 100 GPa), strength (1500 MPa), hardness, and excellent resis- formulations have high compressive strength (400 MPa after tance to corrosion.32 24 hours), high tensile strength, and a high modulus of elastic- One advantage of the cast post/core system is that the core ity. High-copper alloys tend to be stiffer (60 GPa) than low- is an integral extension of the post, and that the core does not copper alloys. depend on mechanical means for retention on the post. This Amalgam can be used with or without a post. Thirty years construction prevents dislodgment of the core from the post ago, investigators described the amalcore.119 With the amalcore and root when minimal tooth structure remains. However, the technique, amalgam is compacted into the pulp chamber and cast post/core system also has several disadvantages. Valuable 2 to 3 mm coronally of each canal. The following criteria were tooth structure must be removed to create a path of insertion considered for the application of this technique: the remaining or withdrawal. Second, the procedure is expensive because two pulp chamber should be of sufficient width and depth to appointments are needed, and laboratory costs may be signifi- provide adequate bulk and retention of the amalgam restora- cant. The laboratory phase is technique sensitive. Metal casting tion, and an adequate dentin thickness around the pulp of a pattern with a large core and a small-diameter post can chamber was required for the tooth-restoration continuum result in porosity in the gold at the post/core interface. Fracture rigidity and strength. The fracture resistance of the amalgam of the metal at this interface under function results in failure coronal-radicular restoration with four or more millimeters of of the restoration. Most important, the cast post/core system chamber wall was shown to be adequate, although the exten- has a higher clinical rate of root fracture than preformed sion into the root canal space had little influence.87 posts.47,166 Amalgam can also be used in combination with a prefabri- Studies on cast post retention have shown that the post cated metallic post when the retention offered by the remain- must fit the prepared root canal as closely as possible to be ing coronal tissue needs to be increased. Amalgam cores are perfectly retained. When a ferrule is present, custom cast posts highly retentive when used with a preformed metal post in and cores exhibit a higher fracture resistance compared to posterior teeth; they require more force to dislodge than cast composite cores built on prefabricated metallic posts or carbon posts and cores.108 Others have suggested the use of adhesive posts.104 Cast posts are also known to exhibit the least amount resins to bond amalgam to coronal tissue.162 of retention and are associated with a higher failure rate com- Significant disadvantages of amalgam cores are the “non- pared to prefabricated parallel-sided posts. In a classic retro- adhesive nature” of the material, the potential for corrosion, spective study (1 to 20 years) of 1273 endodontically treated and subsequent discoloration of the gingiva or dentin. Amalgam teeth in general practice, 245 (19.2%) were restored with use is declining worldwide because of legislative, safety, and tapered cast posts and cores. Among these, 12.7% were deemed environmental issues. failures. This failure rate was higher than that for the other 786 PART III RELATED CLINICAL TOPICS passive post systems used. Of particular concern was the fact temporary resin-based luting cements have been shown to that 39% of the failures led to unrestorable teeth requiring exhibit compressive strengths around 200 MPa and elastic extraction. Thirty-six percent of the failures were due to loss moduli between 4 and 10 GPa.25 These materials may be of retention, and 58% were due to the fracture of the root. It polymerized through a chemical reaction, a photopolymeriza- has been suggested that tapered smooth-sided posts have a tion process, or a combination of both mechanisms. Photo- “wedging” effect under functional loading, and it is this that polymerization of these resin-based materials is often necessary leads to increased risk of root fracture.168 to maximize strength and rigidity. One 6-year retrospective study reported a success rate Most luting cements require a pretreatment of the root canal higher than 90% using a cast post and core as a foundation dentin with either etch-and-rinse or self-etching adhesives. restoration.9 The lower failure rate and fewer root fractures Both types of adhesives have been shown to form hybrid layers were attributed to the presence of an adequate ferrule and along the walls of the post spaces.11 However, bonding to root careful tooth preparation. Attention has also been drawn to the canal dentin may be compromised by the use of endodontic fact that the higher failure rate may be due to the fact that irrigants such as sodium hypochlorite, hydrogen peroxide, or nearly half of the posts were shorter than recommended from their combination.121 Because these chemicals are strong oxi- the literature. A venting groove for the cement along the axis dizing agents, they leave behind an oxygen-rich layer on the of the post results in less stress on residual tissues. dentin surface that inhibits the polymerization of the resin.159 Previous research has shown that the bond strength of C&B Luting Cements Metabond to root canal dentin was reduced by half when the A variety of cements have been used to cement endodontic dentin was previously treated with 5% sodium hypochlorite posts and include traditional cements, glass ionomer cements, (NaOCl) or 15% EDTA/10% urea peroxide (RC Prep, Premier and resin-based luting cements. Dental, Plymath Meeting, PA).113 Other reports indicate that the contamination of the dentin walls by eugenol diffusing from Traditional Cements endodontic sealers may also affect the retention of bonded Zinc phosphate cements or polycarboxylate cements are still posts.70,176 Further, it is difficult to control the amount of mois- used for cementation of posts and crowns. They are generally ture left in a root canal after acid etching, making impregnation supplied as a powder and a liquid and their physical properties of collagen fibers with etch-and-rinse adhesives problematic. are highly influenced by the mixing ratio of the components. The use of self-etching adhesives has been proposed as an Their compressive strength is about 100 MPa, and elastic alternative for the cementation of endodontic posts, because moduli are lower than that of dentin (5 to 12 GPa). Zinc phos- self-etching adhesives are generally used on dry dentin and do phate cement is mostly used for cementing metal restorations not require rinsing of the etchant. However, their efficiency at and posts; film thickness of the zinc phosphate cement is less infiltrating thick smear layers like those produced during post than 25 µm. These cements provide retention through mechan- space preparation remains controversial.110,179 More recently, ical means and have no chemical bond to the post or to dentin dual-curing adhesives have been developed to ensure a better but provide clinically sufficient retention for posts in teeth polymerization of the resin deep inside the root canal. Dual- with adequate tooth structure. cured adhesives contain ternary catalysts to offset the acid-base reaction between the acidic monomers and the basic amines Glass Ionomer Luting Cements along the composite/adhesive interface.111 Glass ionomer cements are a mixture of glass particles and Although both self-curing and light-curing luting cements polyacids, but resin monomers may also be added. Depending can be used for cementation of prefabricated endodontic posts, on the resin content, glass ionomer cements can be classified most resin cements have a dual-curing process that requires as either conventional or resin-modified glass ionomer cements. light exposure to initiate the polymerization reaction. Dual- Conventional glass ionomer cements have compressive curing cements are preferred because there are concerns as to strengths ranging between 100 and 200 MPa; the Young whether light-curing materials are properly cured, especially modulus is generally about 5 GPa. They are mechanically more in areas of difficult light access such as the apical portion of resistant than zinc phosphate cements, and they can bond to the root canal. However, it has been reported that photocured dentin with values ranging between 3 and 5 MPa. Some authors composites generate more shrinkage stress and exhibit less still recommend the use of glass ionomer cements for the flow than chemically cured composites.54 Contraction stresses cementation of metallic posts. Major advantages of conven- induced by polymerization also depend on the geometry of the tional glass ionomer cements are their ease of manipulation, post space and the thickness of the resin film. Previous research chemical setting, and ability to bond to both tooth and post. indicates that the restriction of flow of resin cements by the On the contrary, resin-modified glass ionomer cements are configuration of the root canal can significantly increase the not indicated for post cementation, because these cements contraction stress at the adhesive interface.53,174 exhibit hygroscopic expansion that can promote fracture of In recent years, a number of techniques have been used to the root. measure the adhesion of resin-based luting cements to root canal dentin. These methods include the pull-out tests, the Resin-Based Luting Cements microtensile bond strength tests and the push-out tests.49,65 Today there is a trend toward the use adhesive cements for Although laboratory tests confirmed that bond strengths bonding endodontic posts during the restoration of nonvital ranging between 10 and 15 MPa can be obtained with modern teeth. The rationale for using adhesive cements is based on the resin-based luting cement, there is also evidence that frictional premise that bonding posts to root canal dentin will reinforce retention is a factor contributing to post retention.15 It is gener- the tooth and help retain the post and the restoration.50 Con- ally accepted that bonding to dentin of the pulp chamber is CHAPTER 22 Restoration of the Endodontically Treated Tooth 787 more reliable than to root canal dentin, especially at the apical cements. Self-adhesive luting cements contain multifunctional level.132 The lowered bond strength values recorded at the phosphoric acid methacrylates that react with hydroxyapatite apical third of the root canal are likely to be related to the and simultaneously demineralize and infiltrate dental hard reduced number of dentinal tubules available for dentin tissue.114 They do not require any pretreatment of the tooth hybridization. Shorter posts may be used when successful substrates, and their clinical application is accomplished in a bonding occurs between fiber-reinforced posts and root dentin, single step. Therefore, the self-etching capability of these new because current adhesive luting cements can assist in the reten- cements reduces the risk for incomplete impregnation of the tion of posts in the root canal space.138 conditioned tissue by the resins and reduces technique sensi- Another factor that may influence the performance of resin- tivity. The elastic moduli of chemically cured self-adhesive based luting cements is the thickness of the cement layer. The resin cements are relatively low (4 to 8 GPa) but generally cementation of endodontic fiber posts with thicker cement increase when a dual-curing process is used. It is therefore layers might be required when posts do not perfectly fit inside recommended that all dual-cured resin cements receive the root canal. Although a slight increase in cement thickness maximal light to achieve superior material properties wherever (up to 150 microns) does not significantly affect the perfor- clinically possible.141 Adhesion performance to dentin was mance of adhesive luting cements applied to root canal dentin, found comparable to multistep luting cements, but bonding to thicker layers may be detrimental to bond quality.80,157 enamel without prior phosphoric acid etching is not recom- A recent study indicates that bond strength to radicular mended.76 However, their long-term clinical performances dentin might be maximized by adopting procedures that com- need to be assessed before making a general recommendation pensate for polymerization stresses.14 The bonding procedures for their use. are realized in two separate steps. The initial step allows optimal resin film formation and polymerization along the root canal walls, leading to more ideal resin-dentin hybridization without PRETREATMENT EVALUATION AND stresses imposed by the placement of the post. A second step TREATMENT STRATEGY bonds the post to the cured resin film. The polymerization Before any therapy is initiated, the tooth must be thoroughly shrinkage that occurs during the initial adhesive coating step evaluated to ensure treatment success. Each tooth must be will reduce the effects of stress imposed when the resin-coated examined individually and in the context of its contribution post polymerizes, thereby preserving the bond integrity. to the overall treatment plan and rehabilitation. This assess- Although the bonding performance of resin-based luting ment includes endodontic, periodontal, biomechanical, and cements is well documented, there are other reports indicating esthetic evaluations. Planning of the restoration for endodonti- that resin-dentin bonds degrade over time.23,60 The loss of bond cally treated teeth brings together all aforementioned biome- strength and seal are attributed to the degradation of the hybrid chanical and clinical factors, as well as the various materials layer created at the dentin-adhesive interface. This is particu- and procedures designed to address them. larly true for etch-and-rinse adhesives, because the gelatiniza- tion of collagen fibers caused by phosphoric acids may restrict Pretreatment Evaluation the diffusion of the resin within the interfibrillar spaces and may leave unprotected fibers available for degradation. Remov- Endodontic Evaluation ing organic components from the demineralized dentin prior The prerestorative examination should include an inspection to bonding procedures was recently suggested. The use of of the quality of existing endodontic treatment. New restora- dilute NaOCl (0.5%) after acid etching or the conditioning of tions, particularly complex restorations, should not be placed dentin smear layers with EDTA (0.1 M, pH 7.4) have been on abutment teeth with a questionable endodontic prognosis. shown to produce more durable resin-dentin bonds made with Endodontic retreatment is indicated for teeth showing radio- single-step etch-and-rinse adhesives.156 graphic signs of apical periodontitis or clinical symptoms of Other research indicates that the degradation of denuded inflammation. Restorations that require a post need a post collagen fibrils exposed in incompletely infiltrated hybrid space, which is prepared by removal of gutta-percha from the layers is driven by an endogenous proteolytic mechanism canal. Canals obturated with a silver cone or other inappropri- involving the activity of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs).22,131 ate filling material should be endodontically retreated before The release of MMPs such as collagenases has been evidenced starting any restorative therapy. Because the probability for in both coronal and root dentin of fully developed teeth of periapical tissue to heal after endodontic retreatment is reason- young patients.154 Researchers suggest that conditioning root ably high, the chances to retain a well-restored tooth in asymp- canal dentin with a broad-spectrum protease inhibitor such as tomatic function over time are excellent.125 chlorhexidine (2 wt% chlorhexidine digluconate solution) might be useful for the preservation of dentin bond strength Periodontal Evaluation over time.21 Maintenance of periodontal health is also critical to the long- Interestingly, these dentin-conditioning procedures, which term success of endodontically treated teeth. The periodontal may improve the resistance of the resin-dentin bond to chemi- condition of the tooth must therefore be determined before the cal degradation, also act as antibacterial agents; this might be start of endodontic therapy and restorative phase. The follow- of interest in the endodontic context. ing conditions are to be considered as critical for treatment success: Self-Adhesive Cements Healthy gingival tissue More recently, self-adhesive resin cements have been intro- Normal bone architecture and attachment levels to favor duced as an alternative to conventional resin-based luting periodontal health 788 PART III RELATED CLINICAL TOPICS Maintenance of biologic width and ferrule effect before Tooth Position, Occlusal Forces, and Parafunctions and after endodontic and restorative phases Teeth are subjected to cyclic axial and nonaxial forces. The If one or more of the aforementioned conditions are not teeth and associated restorations must resist these forces to met owing to preexisting pathology or structural defects, treat- limit potential damages such as wear or fracture. The degree ment success or even feasibility can be compromised, some- and direction of forces depend on the location of the tooth in times suggesting extraction of weak teeth and replacement the arch, the occlusal scheme, and the patient’s functional with dental implants rather than conventional therapy. status. In most occlusal schemes, anterior teeth protect posterior Biomechanical Evaluation teeth from lateral forces through anterolateral guidance. In the All previous events, from initial decay or trauma to final root context of very steep anterior guidance and deep vertical over- canal therapy, influence the biomechanical status of the tooth bite, maxillary anterior teeth are sustaining higher protrusive and the selection of restorative materials and procedures. The and lateral forces from the mandibular anterior teeth. Restora- biomechanical status can even justify the decision to extract tions of damaged anterior teeth with heavy function should extremely mutilated teeth that do not deserve extensive treat- therefore be designed to resist flexion. Restorative components ments that carry a limited probability of success. Important should be stronger than would be required for teeth with an clinical factors include the following: edge-to-edge relationship and therefore vertical forces. ◆ The amount and quality of remaining tooth structure Posterior teeth normally carry more vertical forces, espe- ◆ The anatomic position of the tooth cially when canine and anterior guidance are maintained; they ◆ The occlusal forces on the tooth also sustain greater occlusal loads than anterior teeth, and ◆ The restorative requirements of the tooth restorations must be planned to protect posterior teeth against Teeth with minimal remaining tooth structure are at fracture. In the case of parafunctions, protection by anterior increased risk for the following clinical complications120,173,178 contacts are likely to be reduced or lost and posterior teeth (see Fig. 22-1; Fig. 22-4): then submitted to more lateral stresses, generating higher ◆ Root fracture demand for restorative materials. ◆ Coronal-apical leakage The literature reports average biting forces varying between ◆ Recurrent caries 25 and 75 N in the anterior region and between 40 and 125 N ◆ Dislodgment or loss of the core/prosthesis for the posterior region of the mouth, depending on food type, ◆ Periodontal injury from biologic width invasion dental status (dentate or edentulous), and patient anatomy and The amount and quality of remaining tooth substrate are functional habits.59,75 Those forces can easily reach 1000 N or far more important to the long-term prognosis of the restored above in case of parafunctions, showing how potentially tooth than any restorative material properties. One must con- destructive they can be for intact teeth and even more so for sider that no restorative material can truly substitute for dentin nonvital, fragilized teeth. Parafunctional habits (clenching and or enamel and that a minimal amount of intact structure is bruxism) are major causes of fatigue or traumatic injury to mandatory to justify tooth maintenance and its strategic teeth, including wear, cracks, and fractures. Teeth that show importance to the overall treatment plan. The presence of extensive wear or sequelae from parafunctions, especially healthy adjacent teeth available as abutments or the option of heavy lateral function, require components with the highest dental implants are additional factors to be analyzed when physical properties to protect restored teeth against fracture. justifying the restoration of endodontically treated teeth. In general, modern strategy focuses on tissue preservation and also on the use of adhesion to achieve stabilization of the restoration for improved short- and long-term service. However, in certain conditions like reduced tooth support, conventional materials are not obsolete. Esthetic Evaluation and Requirements Anterior teeth, premolars, and often the maxillary first molar, along with the surrounding gingiva, compose the esthetic zone of the mouth. Changes in the color or translucency of the visible tooth structure, along with thin soft tissues or biotype, diminish the chance for a successful esthetic treatment outcome. Potential esthetic complications should be investigated before endodontic therapy is initiated. For instance, metal or dark carbon fiber posts or amalgam placed in the pulpal chamber can result in unacceptable esthetic results, such as a grayish appearance of the overlying prosthetic restoration FIG. 22-4 Failure of prosthetic foundations can have dramatic con- (especially with modern, more translucent full-ceramic sequences on both overlying restorations and surrounding tissues. A crowns) or gingival discoloration from the underlying cervical better understanding of compositional and structural changes that area or root (see Fig. 22-1). All teeth located in the esthetic affect tooth resistance to repeated functional forces is mandatory to zone also require critical control of endodontic filling materials improve treatment success in endodontically treated teeth. in the coronal third of the canal and the pulp chamber to avoid CHAPTER 22 Restoration of the Endodontically Treated Tooth 789 or reduce the risk of discoloration. Careful selection of restor- able biomechanical conditions (group guidance, steep occlusal ative materials, careful handling of tissues, and timely end- anatomy, bruxism, clenching, etc.), a protective approach with odontic intervention are important to preserving the natural full occlusal coverage (onlay or overlay) is mandated to mini- appearance of nonvital teeth and gingiva. mize the risk of fatigue failures (see Table 22-2). Structurally Compromised Teeth Treatment Strategy The decision for placing a post as well as the selection of a post General Principles and Guidelines system (rigid or nonrigid) depends once again on the amount The post, the core, and their luting or bonding agents form and quality of remaining tooth structure and the anticipated together the foundation restoration to support the coronal res- forces sustained by this tooth (Table 22-3). toration of endodontically treated teeth. The recent evolution In general, rigid posts made of stiff materials (metal and of foundation restorations has been to diminish invasiveness, ceramics) are indicated for teeth with minimal tooth structure to use adhesion rather than macromechanical anchorage, and which rely on the post to hold the core and crown. Because rigid to eliminate intraradicular components in selected cases. These posts flex and bend less than other types of posts, they are sup- changing clinical concepts derive from both an improved posed to limit movement of the core and possible disruption of understanding of tooth biomechanics and advances in restor- the crown margins and cement seal. But one must remember ative materials. that stiff posts transmit more stresses to the root, next to the The foundation and its different constituents are then post apex, when conventionally cemented. An attempt to aimed at providing the best protection against leakage-related strengthen a weak root by adding a stiff post can instead make caries, fracture, or restoration dislodgment. Therefore, all the root weaker as a result of the force concentration behavior aforementioned local and general parameters are to be system- of a stiff rod in a more flexible material. Adhesion therefore plays atically analyzed in order to select the best treatment approach a crucial role, since a well-bonded post can help absorb stresses and restorative materials. Prosthetic requirements are also to more evenly throughout the remaining tooth structure. Benefit be taken into consideration to complete each case analysis. In and increased risk of fissure and fracture must then be appro- general, abutments for fixed or removable partial dentures priately weighed against adhesion potential inside the root and clearly dictate more extensive protective and retentive features post type, composition, and surface treatment. than do single crowns, owing to greater transverse and torqu- In structurally sound teeth, nonrigid posts flex with the ing forces. This modern biomechanical treatment strategy is tooth under functional forces, reducing the transfer of force to summarized in Fig. 22-5. the root and reducing the risk of root fracture. Flexion is of course related to post diameter. In structurally compromised Structurally Sound Anterior Teeth teeth, which lack cervical stiffness from dentin and ferrule Anterior teeth can lose vitality as a result of a trauma with no effect, excessive post flexion can be detrimental to the marginal or minimal structural damage. They generally do not require seal and prosthesis longevity, so fiber posts are generally a crown, core, or post; restorative treatment is limited to contraindicated. sealing the access cavity and direct composite fillings. Discol- White or translucent fiber posts are generally preferred oration, whenever present, is addressed by nonvital bleaching, underneath full-ceramic restorations, whereas stronger black or for untreatable or relapsing ones, with conservative carbon fiber posts, which can reflect through gingiva, tooth restorative approaches such as direct or indirect veneers structure, or ceramic restorations, are usually used in teeth to (Table 22-2). be restored with gold or porcelain fused to metal crowns, as well as in zirconia-based restorations. The literature has largely Nonvital Posterior Teeth With Minimal/Reduced overemphasized the impact of post color on restoration esthet- Tissue Loss ics. Metal or carbon post color can be masked with resin The loss of vitality in posterior teeth resulting from trauma, opaquer and gold post and core ceramized to enhance esthetic decay, or restorative procedure does not necessarily lead to integration. Such procedures can help to approach a more ideal extreme biomechanical involvement and therefore allow in restoration biomechanical behavior through the fabrication of certain conditions for conservative restorations. rigid but more esthetic foundations. Upper lateral and lower Occlusal cavities or mesio/disto-occlusal cavities can be incisors, together with extremely thin biotype, are probably restored with either direct- or indirect-adhesive intracoronal the only real esthetic contraindication for metal or carbon restorations, providing residual walls are thick enough (proxi- fiber posts. mal ridges and buccolingual walls more then 1.5 mm thick- In cases of extreme tooth fragility secondary to caries, frac- ness). The three additional clinical factors which must be ture, previous overenlargement of the root canal system, or analyzed to ensure optimal treatment success are the configu- immaturity, residual root structure can be unified and rein- ration factor (C-factor), cavity volume, and dentin quality. For forced with adhesive bonding and composite before placing a instance, a large class I cavity with contaminated and sclerotic normal-diameter post, forming altogether a cohesive unit, as dentin would clearly be a contraindication to the direct previously described. approach, despite the fact it apparently falls within the indica- In conclusion, in a damaged tooth that is to be restored tions of direct techniques. Conservative options must, however, with a nonrigid post, 2 to 3 mm of cervical tooth structure always be analyzed under the light of functional and occlusal must ideally remain to allow creation of a restoration as a environment. They can only be considered in the absence of whole that is resistant to flexion. Teeth with minimal tooth parafunctions and with anterior guidance, which limits overall structure and limited ferrule effect need additional cervical functional loading and lateral or flexural forces. In less favor- stiffness from a more rigid post to resist distortion. In this 790 PART III RELATED CLINICAL TOPICS Conservative approach Clinical conditions No discoloration or discoloration Discoloration resistant to bleaching responding to bleaching !$% bleaching (internal and/or external) Direct composite (pulpal chamber and access cavity) ! Direct composite Veneer or Full crown Conservative lingual access cavity !$% bleaching (internal and/or external) Direct composite (pulpal chamber and access cavity) ! Direct composites Veneer or Full crown Class III cavities (! conservative lingual access cavity) !$% bleaching (internal and/or external) Direct composite (pulpal chamber and access cavity) ! Direct composites Veneer or Full crown Class IV cavity (! conservative lingual access cavity) Protective approach Deep over-bite and increased Limited over-bite and functional stresses* functional stresses** Adhesive core ! Full crown Fiber, ceramic, or metal post and core ! Full crown Large decay but "1/2 residual tooth structure and ferrule effect Fibre or Metal Post and core ! Full crown #1/2 residual tooth structure and/or limited ferrule effect A FIG. 22-5 A, Current recommendations for the treatment of nonvital anterior teeth. *Normal function and anterior guidance; **moderate to severe parafunctions and abnormal occlusion/anterior guidance. CHAPTER 22 Restoration of the Endodontically Treated Tooth 791 Limited functional and lateral stresses* Increased functional and Clinical conditions lateral stresses** Small cavity size or Large cavity size or conservative approach protective approach Class I Class I direct composite or inlay Overlay Class II MO/OD Class II direct composite or inlay Overlay Class II MOD Class II direct composite or inlay Overlay Conservative Conventional or Esthetic indication 1/2 residual tooth structure 4 mm 1/2 Endocrowns (ceramic or composite) Composite core Full crown 1/2 residual tooth structure B Post and core Full crown FIG. 22-5, cont’d B, Current recommendations for the treatment of nonvital posterior teeth. *Relatively flat anatomy and canine guidance, normal function; **group guidance, steep occlusal anatomy, parafunctions. 792 PART III RELATED CLINICAL TOPICS TABL E 2 2 - 2 Clinical Protocols for Restoring Nonvital Teeth With Partial Restorations (Most Likely Procedures) Interface Treatment Treatment Tooth Preparation Approach Indications (Critical Guidelines) Tooth Restoration Restoration Fabrication Composite Minimal None DBA — Direct multilayer restoration tissue loss Veneer Limited ≥1 mm Buccal DBA 1. Sandblasting or CP direct multilayer or tissue loss reduction, lingual etching In laboratory: enamel present, 2. Silane Etchable CER: fired, pressed, minimal to moderate 3. Bonding resin or CAD-CAM discoloration only Overlay Thin Minimum 2 mm DBA + 1. Sandblasting or In laboratory: CP: hand- (composite/ remaining occlusal reduction composite etching shaped, light and/or heat ceramics) walls lining 2. Silane cured, CAD-CAM 3. Bonding resin Etchable CER: fired, pressed or CAD-CAM Endocrown Loss of Minimum 2 mm DBA + 1. Sandblasting or In laboratory: CP: hand- (composite/ occlusal occlusal reduction, composite etching shaped, light and/or heat ceramics) anatomy extension into pulpal lining 2. Silane cured, CAD-CAM chamber 3. Bonding resin Etchable CER: fired, pressed, or CAD-CAM CAD-CAM, Computer-aided design/computer-aided machined; CER, ceramic; CP, composite; DBA, dentin bonding agent; Dual, dual curing; LC, light curing; PFM, porcelain fused to metal; SA, self-adhesive. situation, adhesive cementation is preferred to conventional gingiva. Current restorative procedures allow fabrication of cementation. highly esthetic ceramic coronal restorations that have no metal substructure. When such restorations with remarkable Structurally Compromised Anterior Teeth lifelike color and vitality are selected, it usually implies the use Restoration of endodontically treated teeth becomes more of nonmetal esthetic posts, either ceramic or resin fiber- complex as teeth or supporting structures become increasingly reinforced ones. affected. A nonvital anterior tooth that has lost significant tooth structure requires restoration with a crown, supported Structurally Compromised Posterior Teeth and retained by a core and possibly a post as well. Slightly decayed posterior teeth in the context of parafunctions When less than half the core height is present, or when or significantly fragilized premolars and molars require cuspal remaining walls are extremely thin (less than 1 mm on more protection afforded by onlay restoration, endocrown, or a full than three-fourths of the tooth circumference), a post is needed crown. The need for a post and core depends on the amount to increase retention and stabilize and reinforce the founda- of remaining tooth structure. When remaining walls (buccal tion. Many post options are available nowadays, including and lingual) provide more than 3 to 4 mm height (from pulpal titanium, fiber-reinforced resin, and ceramics. Adhesion is now chamber floor) and 1.5 to 2 mm thickness, core and restoration the preferred mode of post cementation unless a long-term stability are granted through macromechanical retention and/ contamination of root dentin is obvious (e.g., with eugenol), or adhesion; then, posts are not needed (see Fig. 22-5). With making adhesion highly questionable. current treatment strategy, the post has become the exception In the latter situation or in the presence of flared canals rather than the rule for the restoration of nonvital posterior teeth. (possibly as well when a limited ferrule effect is present), cast gold post and core are still considered a feasible option. Actu- Additional Procedures ally, in this extremely unfavorable biomechanical environ- Periodontal crown lengthening surgery or orthodontic extru

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