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Optimizing post-space drying: insights from an in vitro study using standardized three-dimensional-printed models
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Takanori Sakai, Hideshi Sekine, Syuntaro Nomoto, Mamoru Yotsuya, Esha Mukherjee, Hidehiko Watanabe
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J Korean Acad Conserv Dent ;Published online August 3, 2026
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.5395/rde.2026.51.e43
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Abstract
PubReader
- Objectives
This study aimed to evaluate the efficiency of four post-space drying methods using standardized three-dimensional (3D)-printed resin tooth specimens, with emphasis on clinical implications for adhesive post retention.
Methods Maxillary central incisor models with post spaces of three diameters (1.4, 1.7, 2.0 mm) and three lengths (6.0, 9.0, 12.0 mm) were digitally designed and 3D-printed. A total of 81 specimens (n = 9 per post-space condition) were evaluated. Four drying methods were tested: air-syringe (AS), post-air-blow (PAB), paper-point (PP), and root-canal suction (RCS). Remaining moisture amount and content were quantified gravimetrically and analyzed using two-way and one-way analysis of variance with Tukey honestly significant difference (α = 0.05).
Results Drying performance depended on both geometry and technique. AS consistently left greater remaining moisture, whereas PP and RCS showed stable, efficient drying. PAB was generally effective but technique-sensitive in long, narrow geometries.
Conclusions Standardized 3D-printed models enabled reproducible evaluation of post-space drying and revealed clinically relevant limitations of commonly used methods. Selecting drying protocols tailored to post-space geometry may reduce residual moisture prior to adhesive cementing.
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