Comparative analysis of the biomechanical aspects of glass fiber and polyethylene fiber (RIBBOND) posts – literature review

Abstract

Restorative dentistry aims to recover endodontically treated teeth with extensive structural loss, ensuring function, aesthetics, and mechanical strength. teeth that undergo endodontic treatment become more fragile due to the reduction of dental structure, increasing susceptibility to fractures and requiring techniques and materials that reinforce their integrity. among the most used alternatives are fiberglass posts and polyethylene fibers (ribbond), which exhibit favorable biomechanical and aesthetic properties, providing adequate retention and balanced distribution of masticatory forces. This study aimed to analyze, through an integrative literature review, the recommendations, clinical indications, and therapeutic strategies related to the use of fiberglass posts and polyethylene fibers in structurally compromised teeth. the adopted methodology consisted of a systematic search in the pubmed, scielo, lilacs, and google scholar databases, covering the period from 2015 to 2025, using descriptors such as “fiberglass posts,” “polyethylene fiber,” “ribbond,” “composite resins,” and “biomimetic materials.” original articles and review papers published in portuguese and english, available in full and directly addressing the topic, were included. Excluding criteria comprised studies lacking relevant clinical data, unpublished academic works, abstracts, and books. The selection of studies considered clinical relevance, scientific evidence, and applicability in restorative dentistry. The results demonstrate that fiberglass posts present an elastic modulus similar to dentin, excellent adhesion, mechanical strength, favorable aesthetics, and ease of application. They are indicated for teeth with extensive coronal loss requiring intraradicular retention. limitations include inadequate adaptation in wide or irregular root canals, excessive resin cement thickness, and adhesive failures, which may compromise restoration longevity. polyethylene fibers (ribbond), on the other hand, stand out for their biomimetic behavior, high flexibility, translucency, and ability to evenly distribute masticatory forces, promoting repairable fractures and preserving the remaining dental structure. techniques such as “wallpapering” and “rollover” enhance retention and adhesion, increasing the clinical effectiveness of the material. studies indicate that, in certain situations, ribbond can replace fiberglass posts, achieving satisfactory functional and aesthetic results. The choice between fiberglass posts and polyethylene fibers depends on the amount of remaining dental structure, tooth position, type of functional load, and the clinician’s experience. Despite the proven effectiveness of both materials, further longitudinal studies and robust clinical trials are necessary to establish standardized protocols and confirm long-term durability. It is concluded that appropriate material selection, combined with correct technical application, is essential to maximize the strength, longevity, and aesthetics of restorations. Both fiberglass posts and polyethylene fibers represent safe and effective alternatives for the rehabilitation of weakened teeth, enabling a conservative, functional, and biomimetic approach in contemporary restorative dentistry