Stress distribution in a post-restored tooth using the three-dimensional finite element method

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Dental Materials
• Mechanical Engineering

Background:

• Clinicians increasingly prefer restorative materials with elastic moduli similar to dentin for endodontically treated teeth.
• Metallic posts are being phased out due to their potential to induce dangerous, non-homogenous stresses in root dentin.
• Fiber-based posts (carbon, mineral, glass) adhesively luted into the canal are considered ideal restorative options.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effect of material rigidity, insertion depth, and post diameter on stress distribution.
• To analyze stress distribution in the tooth-post-core unit using three-dimensional finite element analysis (FEM).
• To compare the mechanical behavior of different post materials, including fiberglass-reinforced composite and metal alloys.

Main Methods:

• Utilized three-dimensional finite element analysis (FEM) for mechanical evaluation.
• Analyzed stress distribution using Von Mises stress values.
• Investigated the influence of material properties, insertion depth, and post diameter on stress distribution.

Main Results:

• Fiberglass-reinforced composite demonstrated superior stress distribution compared to titanium alloy and stainless steel.
• Optimal placement involves inserting fiberglass-reinforced composite posts as deeply as possible, while ensuring a 5-6 mm apical gutta-percha seal.
• Post diameter did not significantly alter stress distribution, highlighting the importance of preserving radicular dentin.

Conclusions:

• Fiberglass-reinforced composite posts offer a biomechanically advantageous alternative to metallic posts.
• Deep insertion of fiberglass posts, balanced with apical seal, optimizes stress management.
• Preserving radicular dentin by selecting appropriate post diameters is crucial for favorable stress distribution.