Optimization of endocrown design parameters for mandibular second molars: A 3D finite element analysis

Area of Science:

• Dental Materials Science
• Biomaterials Engineering
• Computational Mechanics

Background:

• Endocrowns are a conservative restorative option for endodontically treated teeth.
• Optimizing endocrown design is essential for predictable long-term clinical success.
• Finite element analysis (FEA) is a valuable tool for simulating biomechanical behavior.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the optimal parameters for endocrown design in mandibular second molars.
• To analyze stress distribution in zirconia endocrowns with varying ferrule heights, post space depths, and diameters.
• To compare stress patterns between butt-joint and ferrule endocrown designs.

Main Methods:

• Creation of 18 three-dimensional finite element models of mandibular second molars with zirconia endocrowns.
• Simulation of varying ferrule heights (0-2 mm), post space depths (2-4 mm), and diameters (2-3 mm).
• Analysis of Von Mises stress distribution under 200 N oblique loading.

Main Results:

• Increasing post space depth and diameter in butt-joint designs elevated stress at the post apex.
• Increasing ferrule height reduced stress at the post apex and bonding interface.
• Smaller post space dimensions minimized dentin stress in both butt-joint and ferrule designs.

Conclusions:

• Optimized endocrown design, particularly with reduced post space dimensions, enhances stress distribution and protects remaining tooth structure.
• Ferrule designs demonstrate more uniform stress distribution than butt-joint designs.
• Further clinical studies are warranted to validate FEA findings for endocrown restorations.