Evolution of posts-from rigid to flexible

Abstract

Once endodontic treatment is completed, the tooth must be provided with adequate protection. The endodontically treated teeth are considered more brittle due to structural changes in the tooth structure, which is more prone to fracture if they are not properly crowned. Not every root treated needs a post space. Predominantly when the roof of the pulp chamber is removed, it weakens the tooth. Thus resulting in the need for strong interior and exterior support like a post system. It is critical that the implications (remaining tooth structure, number of teeth, periodontal support, active caries, and good oral hygiene as well as tooth biomechanics) largely influence the restorative approach. Several alterations of the natural shape of the canal become necessary to accommodate a circular post inside the root. Non-rigid post systems such as glass, quartz, and silicon fiber posts have become hugely popular since their introduction in the 1990s. Requirements include an optimal combination of resilience, stiffness, flexibility, and strength. These posts have modulus similar to dentin and provide a more uniform distribution of stress on the remaining tooth structure. Sometimes an anatomic post becomes necessary where fiber posts are contraindicated. Here, it requires more than one visit. Thus, we need to have a thorough knowledge of what type of post to be used.