title: A three-dimensional finite-element stress analysis of an endodontically prepared maxillary central incisor.
abstract: This study is an application of a three-dimensional Finite-Element Method to investigate the changes in stress characteristics of a prepared maxillary central incisor. The purpose of this study was to analyze stress distributions in this tooth after simulated canal preparation and static loading. A maxillary central incisor was embedded in acrylic, sectioned, photographed, and digitized. A three-dimensional finite-element model was generated by a computer and appropriately modified to simulate canal preparation. Data identified the highest stress magnitudes to be located between the middle and coronal thirds of the root; an area clinically observed to be prone to fracture during treatment. In addition, the magnitude of generated stresses was directly correlated with the simulated prepared canal diameter. The development of a validated three-dimensional finite-element method could identify areas that may predispose a tooth to structural failure during condensation loads.
mesh_terms: D003198:Computer Simulation; D003743:Dental Enamel; D003799:Dental Stress Analysis; D003804:Dentin; D007180:Incisor; D008437:Maxilla; D009716:Numerical Analysis, Computer-Assisted; D012389:Root Canal Obturation / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000379:methods*; D013314:Stress, Mechanical; D014082:Tooth Fractures / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control