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Updated: Jun 27, 2026
Quasistatic Mechanical Testing for Computer-Aided Design and Manufacturing Occlusal Veneers Cemented to Milled Dentin Analog Material
Published on: December 20, 2024
Three-dimensional finite element analysis of metal and FRC adhesive fixed dental prostheses
Akikazu Shinya1, Daiichiro Yokoyama, Lippo V J Lassila
1Deptartment of Crowns and Bridges, Schood of Life Dentistry at Tokyo, The Nippon Dental University, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, Japan. akikazu.shinya@utu.fi
Purpose:
The aim of this study was to evaluate stress distribution in anterior adhesive fixed dental prostheses (FDP) and at the tooth/framework interface. Metal (M-FDP) and glass fiber-reinforced composite (FRC-FDP) frameworks were compared.
Materials And Methods:
The design of the FDP consisted of retainers on a maxillary central incisor and canine with a pontic of a lateral incisor. Two different framework materials were compared: isotropic Au-Pd alloy and anisotropic continuous unidirectional E-glass FRC. Veneers in both cases were made of isotropic veneering hybrid composite. A 3-dimensional finite element model of a 3-unit FDP loaded with 154 N (at a 45-degree angle to the incisal edge of the pontic) was used to analyze stress distribution in the FDP and at the adhesive interface. A finite element analysis was used in calculation of the maximum principal stress and displacement.
Results:
The maximum displacement of FRC-FDP was higher than that of M-FDP. Stress concentrations were located equally in the connectors and at the occluding contact points in both framework types. Maximum principal stress of FRC-FDP was lower than that of M-FDP. Stress analysis further indicated that the maximum stress in the luting cement interface of FRC-FDP was located at the middle part of the retainers, whereas in the M-FDP, the maximum stress was located at the marginal edge of the retainers.
Conclusion:
The FE model revealed differences in displacement and stress distribution between metal and FRC frameworks of FDP. The general observation was that FRC-FDP provided more even stress distribution from the occluding contact point to the cement interface than did M-FDP.
