Finite element analysis and strain-gauge studies of vertical root fracture

Vertical root fracture seems to result from stresses generated within the root canal and typically occurs in a buccolingual direction through the thickest part of dentin. Because stresses in the canal wall are difficult to measure experimentally, we have attempted to correlate stress patterns derived from finite element models of maxillary and mandibular incisors with strain measurements on the root surfaces of extracted teeth. Finite element analysis indicated that circumferential tensile stresses were concentrated on the buccal and lingual surfaces of the canal wall, corresponding to areas of greatest canal wall curvature. Surface stresses were much lower and were consistently tensile on the proximal root surfaces but variable on the buccal and lingual surfaces. The measurement of root surface stresses does not provide a reliable picture of internal stresses in the root. Canal wall curvature is a major factor in stress concentration and hence in the pattern of fracture.