Bone support Influence on stress distribution in finite-element dental models

The main goal of dentistry is to restore the impaired form, function and esthetics of the single tooth, the dental arch and the dentition. The clinical work includes the application of different biomaterials to treat impairments, which are various in natures. The system tooth-biomaterial is subjected to masticatory forces, thermal and volume changes. The classical methods of research are aimed at a specific material instead of the tissue-material complex. In order to solve the emanating problems finite element method can be used. FEM is a mathematical method for solving partial differential and integral problems, which enables numerical analysis of systems with unique form and combination of materials. The results are highly informative, representative, and reproducible.

The purpose of the current study is to evaluate the changes in stress distribution of finite element dental model with and without bone support.   

Method:

A tooth model of a first upper premolar and molar with periodontal ligaments were created using Solid works. Bone support was added at a level representing a sound periodontal complex. Different single tooth restoration were simulated – direct restoration, inlay, onlay, overlay, crown. Three-unit FPD was simulated with standard full-coverage crowns.

Result:

In cases where single tooth restorations are tested the presence of bone support does not alter the results. When a FPD is simulated, bone support could produce different results, making the model more representative.

Conclusion:

When FEM models represent the anatomical details more accurately the obtained results are closer to the real in vivo conditions.