Esthetic and adhesive properties of a novel colored fiber post: A restorative approach to an endodontic challenge

Colored fiber posts facilitate clinical retrieval but could impact esthetics and bonding. This study evaluated the color stability and dentin bond strength of a novel colored fiber post designed to facilitate post-removal. Sixty premolars had root canal therapy and post space preparation. Color parameters (ΔL*, Δa*, Δb*) were measured with a spectrophotometer. Specimens were divided into two groups: control-Exacto post (Angelus); experimental-blue-colored fiber post (patent granted). A flowable resin was used for core build-up, and restoration was done with a composite resin (shade A2). Overall color change (ΔE*ab) and whiteness index variation (ΔWI) were calculated (n = 10). Push-out bond strength was assessed at 24 h (n = 10) and 12 months (n = 10). Data were analyzed using anova, Tukey's post hoc, and chi-square tests (α = 0.05). No significant differences were found between groups for ΔE*ab or ΔWI. After aging, both groups showed increased ΔE*ab and ΔWI. Bond strength was similar between groups, although both decreased over 12 months. Adhesive failure was predominant in both groups. The experimental colored fiber post demonstrated esthetic and mechanical performance comparable to a conventional fiber post, offering a potential alternative for restoring endodontically treated teeth with enhanced retreatability and safety.