Comparison of fracture resistance of noncarious cervical lesions restored with nanocomposite and Ribbond fiber-reinforced composite in lower premolars - An in vitro study

Background: Noncarious cervical lesions formed due to eccentric and parafunctional flexural forces on teeth lead to the formation of V-shaped abfraction lesions. These V-shaped lesions tend to propagate due to the concentration of stress over a small area and cause a tooth fracture. This study adopted a new technique to interrupt this crack propagation and thus increase the longevity of teeth and restoration. Aim: This study aimed to compares the immediate fracture resistance of noncarious cervical lesions restored with nanocomposite and Ribbond fiber-reinforced nanocomposite resin in the lower premolars. Objectives: This study compares the immediate fracture resistance of noncarious cervical lesions due to parafunctional forces using different restorative techniques on the lower premolars. Materials and Methodology: Forty-five extracted lower premolars in perfect condition were collected; abfraction lesions were prepared of standardized dimensions and categorized into 3 groups. Group A – without restoration; Group B – cavities filled with nanocomposite resin; and Group C – cavities filled with composite and Ribbond fiber interspersed between the tooth and the restoration. Ribbond fiber was introduced in between the tooth and material to combat these nonfunctional forces acting on the tooth and prevent fracture. Results: The immediate fracture resistance of Group A was the least, and Group C was the highest. Conclusion: The difference in the immediate fracture resistance of noncervical carious lesions (NCCLs) when restored with nanocomposite and restored with nanocomposite along with Ribbond fiber was not of much significance.