Adhesion to Intraradicular Dentin: A Review

Luting fiber posts to intraradicular dentin remains an unpredictable goal due to various clinical factors influencing the clinical procedure. Primarily differences can be found between bonding to coronal or to intraradicular dentin due to the different histological characteristics of the substrates, the high C-factor of the endodontic space, the presence of smear layer due to the post preparation technique, incompatibility between some adhesive systems and resin-based cements, and finally the limited access of the post space that may lead the clinician to different mistakes. Thus this article critically evaluates all aspects that may jeopardize the adhesion of luted fiber posts within the endodontic space, suggesting the use of standardized techniques that improve immediate adhesion and stabilize the adhesive interface over time. The review of the data currently available in peer-reviewed journals suggests that a strict following of a step-by-step clinical standardized technique allows the clinician to minimize bond failure and obtain a clinically reliable durable bond. (C) Koninklijke Brill NV, Leiden, 2009