Three-dimensional finite element stress analysis of teeth adjacent to a traumatized incisor

Dental trauma is the cause of several consequences to the injured tooth. However, the stresses and strains at adjacent teeth non-directly impacted as a possible cause of sequelae are still unknown. The aim of this study was to evaluate the stress distribution in incisors adjacent to an upper central incisor when it suffers a frontal impact in order to identify a potential explanation for sequelae in non-traumatized teeth.

A three-dimensional (3D) finite element model of the maxillary central incisors, lateral incisors and canines was created from a cone-beam scan of a patient with normal occlusion. Non-linear dynamic impact analysis was performed, simulating the right central incisor being impacted by a steel ball with a velocity of 10 m/s. A functional chewing load (100 N) on the palatal surface of the central incisor was simulated for comparison. Displacements, strains and modified von Mises stresses were calculated for the adjacent teeth.

During impact on the central incisor, the adjacent teeth showed root displacement. Considerable stress concentrations were observed on the palatal surfaces, proximal and labial surfaces of teeth adjacent to the traumatized incisor. Stresses in the adjacent teeth were higher than stresses calculated during functional biting. Compressive stresses were concentrated at the proximal areas of the adjacent incisors. High levels of deformation were found in the root dentin of adjacent teeth during the traumatic event.

A frontal impact on an anterior tooth generated stresses at the roots of adjacent teeth. These stresses may play a role in clinically observed sequelae of teeth adjacent to traumatized teeth.