Comparative Study of the Flexural Strength of Three Fiber-Reinforced Composites

Received Jan. 2012; Received in revised form June 2012; Accepted June 2012. ABSTRACT Statement of Problem: After 30 years of intermittent reports in the literature, the use of fiber-reinforcement is just now experiencing rapid expansion in dentistry. However, there are some controversy reports in the amounts of flexural strength of fiber reinforced composites to use them as bridges. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the flexural strength of three commercially available fiber-reinforced composites including Belle Glass, GC Gradia, and Signum. Materials and Method: Thirty uniform bars of 25×2×2 mm (10 for each group) were fabricated as their manufacturers recommended. Then all specimens were loaded to failure using a three-point bending test and flexural strength was determined. Results: The mean flexural strength of Belle Glass (386.65 MPa) was significantly ( p < 0.0001) higher than that of GC Gradia (219.25 MPa) and Signum (172.89 MPa). There was no significant difference between GC Gradia and Signum in flexural strength. Conclusion: On the basis of these findings, Belle Glass can be used in clinical practice with greater confidence compared to GC Gradia and Signum. Corresponding author: Salehi M. Dept. of Prosthodontics, School of Dentistry, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran Tel: 0098-0711-6353348 Fax: 0098-0711-2349583 E-mail: [email protected]