Cement system and surface treatment selection for fiber post luting.

This literature review summarizes the recent research on fiber posts and provides information regarding their bonding to resinous cement or composites, based on the results of original scientific full-papers from peer-reviewed journals listed in Pub Med. The search was conducted evaluating the different materials available for luting fiber posts to radicular dentin. A consistent number of in vitro studies investigating different combinations of adhesive systems and luting agents for improving bond strength have been published so far. Their results have been summarized in the following categories: conventional resinous cements and self-adhesive cements. Low bond strength values and the lack of long-term clinical data limit the application of recently marketed self-adhesive cements. The choice of the total-etch technique using dual-curing adhesive systems and cements represents the most predictable methodology for luting fiber posts. Particular attention has been deserved also to the post surface treatment for improving their adhesiveness: the methodology may include chemical and/or micro-mechanical treatments. The majority of available literature data is based on studies that investigated different "chair-side" post superficial treatments. According to the in vitro results, surface conditioning improves fiber post bonding properties and bond strength of pre-treated fiber posts to restorative materials is satisfactory. Long-term clinical studies are needed prior to making a general recommendation for their use.