SFRCs Show Superior Fracture Resistance and Clinical Potential to conventional resin composites: Study
Researchers have found in a new study that short fiber–reinforced composites (SFRCs) demonstrated higher fracture resistance than conventional resin composites, with performance comparable to bulk-fill composites. SFRCs appear promising for use in extensive restorations, although further work is needed to refine combinations of materials and to standardize testing approaches.
Existing evidence suggests that conventional and bulk-fill resin composites (RCs) do not fully restore the physiological fracture resistance of teeth with extensive MOD cavities, leaving posterior restorations susceptible to bulk fracture, particularly in structurally compromised or endodontically treated teeth. Whether short fiber-reinforced resin-based composites (SFRCs) can address these limitations and improve fracture resistance remains unclear. The purpose of this systematic review and network meta-analysis was to evaluate the fracture resistance of extensive direct restorations restored with SFRCs, either as a single component or combined with other materials, compared with bulk-fill RCs, conventional RC, and intact teeth. A systematic search was conducted in the PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and EMBASE databases for studies published through July 2025. In vitro studies evaluating fracture resistance in MOD cavities restored with SFRC compared with other restorative techniques were included. A random-effects network meta-analysis was performed using standardized mean differences (SMDs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Heterogeneity (I² and τ²) and inconsistency were assessed using node-splitting and loop inconsistency models. The confidence in the results was evaluated using the confidence in network meta-analysis (CINeMA) framework.
The authors note that while SFRCs show clear advantages, variability in fiber size, matrix composition, and testing protocols across studies complicates direct comparisons. Optimizing fiber-resin synergy, understanding long-term behavior, and establishing uniform standards are critical next steps. If these hurdles can be addressed, SFRCs may become a reliable choice for restoring large cavities or load-bearing regions in dental practice—offering a balance of strength and adaptability currently unmatched by traditional composites.
Keywords: short fiber–reinforced composites, SFRC, fracture resistance, resin composite, bulk-fill composite, dental restoration, mechanical properties, crack resistance
Reference: Effect of short fiber-reinforced resin-based composite on fracture resistance of extensive direct restorations: A systematic review and network meta-analysis. Wayakanon, Kornchanok et al. The Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry, Volume 0, Issue 0
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