Intensity of singular stress fields of wedge-shaped defect in human tooth due to occlusal force before and after restoration with composite resins.

Wedge-shaped defects are frequently observed on the cervical region of the human tooth. Previously, most studies explained that improper tooth-brushing causes such defects. However, recent clinical observation suggested that the repeated stress due to occlusal force may induce the formation of these wedge-shaped defects. In this study, therefore, two-dimensional human tooth models are considered with and without a wedge-shaped defect by applying the finite element method. To evaluate large stress concentrations accurately, a method of analysis is discussed in terms of the intensity of singular stress fields appearing at the tip of the sharp wedge-shaped defect. The effects of the position and direction of occlusion on the intensity of singular stress fields are discussed before and after restoration with composite resins.