Finite element analysis of different restorative materials in primary teeth restorations.

AIM

The purpose of this finite element analysis (FEA) study is to evaluate and compare the stress distributions at the primary molars and restorative materials according to the material used.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 12 3D models of Class II cavities in primary molars plus one control model were analysed. Study design: Three-dimensional FEA was used to compare stress distribution on enamel, dentin and restoration surfaces of cavities.

STATISTICS

Stresses occurring under occlusal forces were compared with the von Mises criterion.

RESULTS

The highest von Mises stress values at the enamel and restoration of restored tooth 84 were computed. On the basis of these results, all materials were ranked on enamel stress as: flowable composite resin (FCR)> compomer > resin modified glass ionomer cement (RMGIC) > giomer composite resin (GCR) > hybrid composite resin (HCR) > amalgam. Moreover, ranking of materials on restoration stress was FCR < compomer < RMGIC < GCR < amalgam < HCR.

CONCLUSION

A restorative material with appropriate elasticity module, able to balance stress concentrations, should be used to increase the survival rate of both the hard tissue of the tooth and the restoration material.