A comparison of intracanal stresses in a post-restored tooth utilizing the finite element method.

The finite element method was used to compare stresses along the inner canal wall in four two-dimensional models of an average maxillary central incisor. The four models evaluated were an intact incisor, an endodontically treated incisor, an endodontically treated crown-restored incisor, and a cylindrical post and crown-restored incisor. A horizontal static force, 1 Newton in magnitude, was applied to the lingual surface of each model and the maximum tensile, compressive, and shear stresses were calculated using the general purpose finite element program PAFEC 75. Results indicate that the stress patterns within the root are altered as a result of post insertion. Specifically, the maximum bending stresses are associated with the apical termination of the post, and post placement does not result in a uniform distribution of stress along the canal wall.