Stress distribution of esthetic posts in the restored maxillary central incisor: Three‑dimensional finite‑element analysis

Abstract

Background: Glass fiber posts, along with their esthetic properties, may have a better stress
distribution than cast posts, Therefore, the aim of the present study was to investigate the effect
of glass fiber, casting, titanium, and zirconia posts on stress distribution in maxillary central tooth
treated with different amounts of ferrule using finite‑element analysis.
Materials and Methods: In this experimental study, three‑dimensional models of maxillary central incisors that have
undergone root canal treatment were designed. Then, the models were divided into four groups
according to the type of post (Ni‑Cr casting, glass fiber, titanium, and zirconia) used. Zirconia
monolithic crowns were used in all the four groups. Ferrule heights were repeated at 0 and 2 mm
in all models. Models were entered into COMSOL Metaphysics software. Then, the force of 100 N
with the angle of 135° on the palatal surface was applied to the longitudinal axis of the tooth, and
the stress distribution in the models was investigated.
Results: Maximum stress was observed in the middle third of posts. Stress distribution in glass
fiber post was better than zirconia and casting posts. Stress accumulation in models with zirconia,
titanium, and casting posts was also found in the site between the middle third and coronal third,
whereas in models with glass fiber post, stress accumulation was found between the crown and
the cemento‑enamel junction. In models without ferrule, stress accumulation was observed in
one‑third of the coronal, especially in glass fiber posts.
Conclusion: The post material and ferrule height affected stress concentration. The stress in the
cervical area of the dentin was more for glass fiber post when compared to other posts. The use
of glass fiber post in teeth with no ferrule results in lower stress along the post, but greater stress
in the simulated tooth region.
Key Words: Ceramics, crowns, dental dowel, finite‑element analyses, zirconium oxide