ParaPost Fiber Lux

Enhanced light transmission maximizes both esthetics and retention in this innovative fiber/resin post system

parapost fiber lux

Considering that most patients view root canal therapy with the enthusiasm typically reserved for a tax audit, it seems only fair that the end result should be both exceptionally functional and esthetic. For the ideal combination of esthetics and strength, Coltene’s translucent fiber/resin ParaPost Fiber Lux posts just might be the perfect solution for metal-free composite and ceramic restorations.

Enhanced light transmission through the post reflects natural tooth hues and eliminates shadows at the gingival/crown interface, while the rounded, undercut double head design minimizes areas of stress concentration and maximizes core retention. Because “the esthetic translucency of this post allows light transmission through the post, tooth, and restorative material, the tooth and restorative material shades are stable and not altered by the post, providing a more natural translucent appearance,” explained Dr. Gary Johnson.

After using the ParaPost Fiber Lux system for several weeks, Dr. Johnson determined, “The post design and kit contents have allowed me to quickly restore endodontically treated teeth under a wide spectrum of difficulties.” He added, “I would recommend this product due to its versatility and easy use clinically for a quick and improved restorative result.”

Convenience of Kit

The ParaPost Fiber Lux Introductory Kit, which Dr. Donald Roman described as “well laid out and organized,” contains 15 posts, 6 drills, and a hand driver. The posts come in 6 color-coded sizes and are compatible with ParaPost drills.

“The drill worked well, and placement of the post seemed effortless,” shared Dr. Robert Haberkorn, while Dr. Jonathan Bultema said the system “made it quick and easy to create post space and place posts.” Dr. Johnson said the “kit provides a variety of post sizes with a shape that allows for easy insertion and restoration for a wide variety of circumstances,” and Dr. J. Michael Heider reported, “The sizes, shapes, and corresponding cement made placing posts easier and faster.” Dr. Craig Aebli appreciated the color coding but would like to see sharper post drills.

Retention & Preservation

The cylindrical design of the posts makes them ideal for universal application, according to Coltene. The light transmission enables quick, on-demand cementation, and length can be adjusted at the head and apical end. Hoping for “a post with structural strength that bonds well to tooth structure but doesn’t contribute to vertical root fracture,” Dr. J. Jerald Boseman said the ParaPost Fiber Lux posts “seem to perform well in all 3 categories.” Acknowledging the need for long-term follow up, he told DPS, “The system’s inherent flexibility should minimize the risk of fracture.” He also pointed out that the bonding process is faster and stronger because the light transmission through the post maximizes the light curing of resin bonding. “It gave me enough confidence in its early bond strength to allow me to complete the post buildup procedure much more quickly.”

“I’m able to place posts more simply and without as much concern about failure,” said Dr. Haberkorn, who salvaged a tooth No. 10 with a metal post root fracture. Dr. Kenneth Chae was able to “rebuild tooth structure for proper retention of crowns, and Dr. Bultema said the post “helps preserve good tooth structure.” Appreciating the post’s shape for narrow canals, Dr. Jacob Scheiner likes that the “length adjustment is done at the head so you have 3 heads.”

For Dr. Johnson, the design of the post “decreases resistance for the cement to be expressed coronally upon seating, and the rounded undercut shape and retention ledges provide for retention and anti-rotation.” Dr. Boseman suggested “a more anatomical taper at the apical end of the post to minimize removal of healthy tooth structure.” If a tapered post is necessary for the case, clinicians can use Coltene’s ParaPost Taper Lux fiber post system

kenneth chae dds

"It’s my go-to post for all anterior cases."

robert handerkorn dds

"The drill worked well, and placement of the post seemed effortless."

jonathan bultema dds

"The system made it quick and easy to create post space and place posts."

Kenneth Chae,

DDS

Chicago, IL

Robert Haberkorn,

DDS

Beaufort, SC

Jonathan Bultema,

DDS

Horace, ND

gary johnson dds magd

“The kit provides a variety of post sizes with a shape that allows for easy insertion and restoration.”
— Gary Johnson, DDS, MAGD Berkeley, IL

Final Esthetics

Calling the ParaPost Fiber Lux system “a nice option for anterior post and core restorations,” Dr. Aebli said, “The translucent posts do not darken the tooth,” and Dr. Denise Habjan said, “The tooth color seems to be stronger.” Dr. Roman described the post color as “neutral,” making it especially useful for maxillary anterior endodontically treated teeth requiring a cemented post. Calling it his “go-to post for all anterior cases,” Dr. Chae said, “It provides great esthetics for porcelain and light zirconia crowns.”

Overall Satisfaction

A user of Coltene’s endodontic products since the 1980s, Dr. Johnson called the ParaPost Fiber Lux system “another welcome advancement for quality cosmetic dentistry.” For Dr. Aebli, “ParaPosts have been reliable for me for many years, and I will continue to use them.” Noting that the “ParaPost Fiber Lux has now become our go-to system,” Dr. Haberkorn said, “It is the best system I’ve ever used.”

Takeaways

• Translucent fiber/resin reflects natural tooth hues and eliminates shadows
• Enhanced light transmission maximizes retention with improved light curing of cements and core materials
• Rounded, undercut double head design minimizes areas of stress concentration
• Introductory kit contains 15 posts, 6 drills, and a hand driver
• Available in 6 color-coded sizes and compatible with ParaPost drills

ParaPost® Fiber Lux Translucent Fiber Posts System - Refill, 5/Pkg - Size 3, Length 0.90 mm, Brown