The objective of this study was to evaluate polyetheretherketone (PEEK) as a post material for resin core abutments in bovine root by static and dynamic fracture loads, with comparison for fiber-reinforced composite (FRC) post. Resin core abutments using experimental PEEK post (CR-PEEK) and bovine root (BRA-PEEK) were fabricated. Specimens including those built-up FRC posts instead of PEEK posts (CR-FRC and BRA-FRC) were also evaluated for load durability under static and dynamic loading tests. CR-PEEK had a lower fracture load than CR-FRC. BRA-PEEK and BRA-FRC had similar static and dynamic loads, with the primary fracture mode involving delamination of the abutment from the tooth structure due to ferrule fracture, with plastic deformation in the experimental PEEK post. In conclusion, experimental PEEK post could be a viable post material for resin core abutment when used in combination with resin composite.
Keywords: Dynamic fatigue; Endodontically treated tooth; Fiber post; Fracture strength; Polyetheretherketone.