Stress analysis in a post-restored tooth utilizing the finite element method.

This study utilized the finite element method (FEM) to predict distribution of stresses in dentin of an endodontically treated tooth, restored with cast post and cores. For this investigation an axisymmetric model of a maxillary second pre-molar that included an alveolar bone was analysed. The three tooth models evaluated were Ti-Ti alloy, NiCr-AuPd alloy and Ti-NiCr alloy as post-material and crown material with porcelain. A load of 200 N at an angle of 45 degrees to the longitudinal axis was applied on the occlusal margin of each model. The tooth was assumed isotropic, homogenous and elastic. The author prepared a calculation program using fortran 77. Investigation of the stress distributions was made in five regions; namely bottom of post, top of post, cole, metal-cement interface and metal-porcelain interface. The distributions of radial and axial stresses were plotted with length of radial.