Finite element analysis of fiber-reinforced fixed partial dentures

Dent Mater J. 2005 Jun;24(2):275-9. doi: 10.4012/dmj.24.275.

Abstract

Two-dimensional finite element models were created for a three-unit posterior fixed partial denture. An experimental resin-impregnated glass fiber was used as the fiber-reinforced composite (FRC) for the framework. The FRC was evaluated using varying combinations of position and thickness, alongside with two types of veneering composite. A load of 50 N simulating bite force was applied at the pontic in a vertical direction. Tensile stress was examined using a finite element analysis program. Model without FRC showed tensile stress concentrations within the veneering composite on the cervical side of the pontic--from the connector area to the bottom of the pontic. Model with FRC at the top of the pontic had almost the same stress distribution as the model without FRC. Models with 0.4-0.8 mm thick FRC positioned at the bottom of the pontic showed maximum tensile stresses reduced by 4-19% within the veneering composite.

MeSH terms

  • Bite Force
  • Composite Resins
  • Computer Simulation
  • Dental Stress Analysis / methods*
  • Dental Veneers
  • Denture Design*
  • Denture, Partial, Fixed*
  • Finite Element Analysis
  • Glass
  • Glass Ionomer Cements
  • Methacrylates
  • Polyurethanes
  • Silicate Cement
  • Stress, Mechanical
  • Tensile Strength

Substances

  • Composite Resins
  • Glass Ionomer Cements
  • Methacrylates
  • Polyurethanes
  • dental polyglass
  • fiberglass
  • urethanetrimethacrylate
  • Silicate Cement