The effect of placement of glass fibers and aramid fibers on the fracture resistance of provisional restorative materials.

The fracture resistance of provisional restorations is an important concern for the restorative dentist. The fracture resistance of a material is directly related to its transverse strength. Six specimens of similar dimensions were prepared from three resins (PMMA, PEMA and BIS acryl-composite). The resins were reinforced with glass and aramid fibers. The samples were tested immediately after the material set, following seven days of wet storage using three-point compression loading. The results were analyzed with an analysis of variance (ANOVA). Fracture resistance of the specimens was statistically different (p < 0.001) among the materials. Specimens reinforced with glass fibers showed higher transverse strength (149.82 MPa). The fiber reinforcement of resin materials increased the strength values (20-50%). Within the limitations of this study, the transverse strengths of PMMA, PEMA and BIS acryl-resin composites were improved after reinforcement with glass and aramid fibers.