3D micro-CT analysis of void formations and push-out bonding strength of resin cements used for fiber post cementation

PURPOSE. To investigate the void parameters within the resin cements used for fiber post cementation by micro-CT (${\mu}CT$) and regional push-out bonding strength. MATERIALS AND METHODS. Twenty-one, single and round shaped roots were enlarged with a low-speed drill following by endodontic treatment. The roots were divided into three groups (n=7) and fiber posts were cemented with Maxcem Elite, Multilink N and Superbond C&B resin cements. Specimens were scanned using ${\mu}CT$ scanner at resolution of $13.7{\mu}m$. The number, area, and volume of voids between dentin and post were evaluated. A method of analysis based on the post segmentation was used, and coronal, middle and apical thirds considered separately. After the ${\mu}CT$ analysis, roots were embedded in epoxy resin and sectioned into 2 mm thick slices (63 sections in total). Push-out testing was performed with universal testing device at 0.5 mm/min cross-head speed. Data were analyzed with Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney U tests (${\alpha}=.05$). RESULTS. Overall, significant differences between the resin cements and the post level were observed in the void number, area, and volume (P<.05). Super-Bond C&B showed the most void formation ($44.86{\pm}22.71$). Multilink N showed the least void surface ($3.51{\pm}2.24mm^2$) and volume ($0.01{\pm}0.01mm^3$). Regional push-out bond strength of the cements was not different (P>.05). CONCLUSION. ${\mu}CT$ proved to be a powerful non-destructive 3D analysis tool for visualizing the void parameters. Multilink N had the lowest void parameters. When efficiency of all cements was evaluated, direct relationship between the post region and push-out bonding strength was not observed.