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

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 load-ed 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.