A Novel Approach to Fracture Resistance Using Horizontal Posts after Endodontic Therapy: A Case Report and Review of Literature

Studies of endodontic outcomes suggest that fracture of the tooth after endodontic therapy may be a greater problem than endodontic reinfection. Immediate full coverage with or without a post and core is the best way to prevent fracture. Unfortunately, in many population areas, due predominantly to cost, this restoration is often delayed, leading to fracture of the tooth. Reviews of several in vitro studies suggest that a composite restoration reinforced with glass fibers, particularly with fiberglass posts laid horizontally in a buccolingual direction, significantly increased the resistance to fracture. This case report describes in detail the placement of horizontal posts in an endodontically treated molar to reinforce the coronal structure. In the discussion, we outlined the agreement of most of the authors on the increase in fracture resistance and the lack of consensus on what constitutes a catastrophic fracture.