Efficacy of different treatments of root canal walls on the pull-out bond strength of the fiber posts.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of different irrigation protocols, including laser, on the retention of the fiber-reinforced composite posts to root canal dentinal walls using pull-out tests. Root canals of 60 single-rooted human teeth were filled and post spaces were prepared. Finally, specimens were divided randomly into five groups, each consisting of 12 specimens as follows: 5% NaOCl (control group), 17% EDTA, ultrasonic with 17% EDTA, single 1.5-W Er:YAG laser application, and the combined use of Er:YAG laser and 17% EDTA. After the root canal procedures, fiber posts were cemented to the root canal. Pull-out tests were performed using a universal testing machine at a crosshead speed of 2 mm/min. The data were analyzed using a one-way ANOVA and Bonferroni post hoc test (p = 0.05). Irradiation by the Er:YAG laser with/without EDTA positively affected the pull-out bond strength (p < 0.001). The pull-out strength was significantly higher in the ultrasonic group than that of the single irrigation with NaOCl or EDTA (p < 0.001). Er:YAG laser irradiation with/without EDTA enhanced the bond strength of fiber posts to root canal dentin walls. Additionally, ultrasonic-EDTA combination increased the bond strength.