Influence of glass-fiber reinforcement on the flexural strength of different resin composites

Fiber-reinforced composites have recently been advocated as an alternative to fixed metal framework prostheses. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of glass-fiber reinforcement on the flexural strength of different resin composites. The tested composites were X-tra fil, Filtek Z350 XT Flow and Filtek Z350 XT commercially available and reinforced with glass-fiber. Six groups of bars specimens (2?×?2?×?20?mm) were prepared (n?=?10). The measurement of flexural strength of the resin composites was carried out by the three-point bending test. Data were subjected to ANOVA and post hoc Tukey’s tests (α?=?0.05). The flexural strength of all composites was improved when combined with glass fiber. The bulk-fill X-tra fil composite (133.53?MPa) was the strongest fiber-reinforced material. Clinically, fiber reinforcement should be employed in extensive restorations to provide increased flexural strength.