Physical and mechanical properties of dual functional cements-an in vitro study

Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the physical and mechanical properties of different dual functional cements.

Materials and methods: Three dual functional cements (Allcem Core (FGM), Rebilda DC (VOCO), and LuxaCore Z (DMG)), a luting resin cement (Rely X ARC (3 M ESPE)), and a Core Buildup composite resin GrandioSo (VOCO) were used. Flexural strength (n = 10) and film thickness (n = 6) were evaluated according to ISO 4049:2009. Flow (n = 6) was evaluated according to ISO 6876:2001. Degree of conversion (DC) was assessed immediately and 24 h after polymerization (n = 5). For resistance to dislodgment (RD) analysis, bovine teeth were prepared to receive fiber glass posts, and a push-out test (n = 12) was used.

Results: Luxacore Z presented lower flexural strength when compared to GrandioSo (p < 0.001). No statistical difference was found between cements for film thickness (p = 0.66). Reduced flow values were found for Allcem Core (p = 0.006). No statistical difference was found for immediate DC for different cements (p > 0.05). After 24 h, DC increased for all groups, except for Luxacore Z (p = 0.054). The RD did not differ from the control Rely X ARC, regardless of the root third (p > 0.05). Luxacore Z showed lower mean values in the apical third compared to the coronal third (p = 0.046).

Conclusions: The dual functional cements (Allcem Core and Rebilda DC) possessed similar physical and mechanical properties of luting resin cement (RelyX ARC) and Core Buildup composite resin (GrandioSo). Hence, they could be used for one-stage post and core buildup restorations.

Clinical relevance: The dual functional cements could be used for one-stage post and core buildup restorations since they possess similar physical and mechanical properties of luting resin cements and Core Buildup composite resin.