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Updated: Jun 26, 2026
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Quasistatic Mechanical Testing for Computer-Aided Design and Manufacturing Occlusal Veneers Cemented to Milled Dentin Analog Material
Published on: December 20, 2024
Finite element analysis of a four-unit all-ceramic fixed partial denture
Marc Philipp Dittmer1, Philipp Kohorst, Lothar Borchers
1Hannover Medical School, Department of Prosthetic Dentistry and Biomedical Materials Science, Carl-Neuberg-Str. 1, 30625 Hannover, Germany. Dittmer.Marc@mh-hannover.de
Acta Biomaterialia
|January 2, 2009
Summary
Four-unit yttria-stabilized zirconia (Y-TZP) fixed partial dentures (FPDs) show stress concentrations in the middle connector. These findings align with previous in vitro studies, indicating potential fracture origins under occlusal load.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Dental Materials
- Mechanical Engineering
Background:
- All-ceramic dental restorations are susceptible to brittle fracture.
- Previous in vitro studies suggest zirconia frameworks offer sufficient strength for posterior fixed partial dentures (FPDs).
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the stress distribution in a four-unit yttria-stabilized polycrystalline tetragonal zirconia (Y-TZP) fixed partial denture (FPD) under occlusal load.
- To correlate finite element analysis (FEA) stress predictions with observed fracture locations from prior in vitro testing.
Main Methods:
- Construction of a three-dimensional finite element model of a four-unit Y-TZP FPD.
- Performing stress analysis with a 1630 N occlusal load applied to the middle connector area.
- Investigating stress variations based on load direction (oral-to-buccal vs. buccal-to-oral).
Main Results:
- Maximum tensile stress of 633 MPa was predicted at the middle connector.
- FEA identified maximum tensile stress locations that coincided with fracture origins in 10 previously tested specimens.
- Applied load direction significantly influenced stress levels (648 MPa oral-to-buccal, 570 MPa buccal-to-oral).
Conclusions:
- The finite element model accurately predicts stress distribution and potential fracture sites in Y-TZP FPDs.
- Predicted stresses are comparable to the flexural strength of Y-TZP (600-1000 MPa).
- The FEA model can be utilized for further research, including thermal stress analysis during veneering.
