3D FEA of different post systems and cements in a maxillary incisor

Abstract

The effect of different post materials and cement rigidity on an endodontically treated maxillary central incisor was evaluated in this study by three dimensional stress analyses using the Finite Element Method. Methods: A 3D FEM model of a central maxillary incisor with no surviving dentinal walls was created. The following parameters were studied: 3 loading conditions[mastication, bruxism and impact], 3 different luting cements [Zinc phosphate cement, resin cement with low modulus, resin cement with high modulus], 4 post materials when present [steel, titanium, glass fiber, zirconium posts with composite cores and composite restoration without post]. To standardize the results of the analysis, 22 different points were defined on the model and their analytical positions were determined. Results and conclusion: There were significant differences between post systems and also between cements. The stresses decreased with the post material in order of steel, zirconium, titanium, glass fiber with low modulus adhesive cement. The stresses decreased in order of glass fiber, titanium, zirconium, steel with high modulus adhesive cement. In functional loading, maximum equivalent stress mostly occurs at the vestibular side of the cement layer. Minimum stress values were obtained with the glass fiber post bonded with an adhesive resin cement with low elastic modulus.