The effect of post type on stress distribution in endodontically treated maxillary central incisors: A Finite Element Study

Following endodontic therapy, teeth need to be protected from fracture. The likelihood of fracture depends on the type of restoration. This simulated study was designed to compare the effect of two different restorations on stress transmission to dental tissue. Four 3-dimentional models of maxillary central incisor were created as following by finite element analysis: (1) Restored with prefabricated stainless steel post, composite core and full ceramic crown (IPS Impress2), (2) restored with prefabricated Fiber glass post, composite core & full ceramic crown (IPS Impress2), (3) restored with Accessory Fiber glass post, composite core & full ceramic crown (IPS Impress 2) and (4) without restoration. Each of the models received 100 loads to incisal edge at an angle of 45 degrees to tooth long axis. Von Mises Stress analysis was performed for each model, comparing maximum stress intensity observed. In all groups the greatest stress was observed in the cervical region. The stress increased steadily from apex to C.E.J and decreased from C.E.J to incisal edge. The Von Misses Stress in CEJ was highest in Accessory pin group to compared the other groups. Prefabricated stainless steel post, Fiber Glass post& vital tooth groups showed slight differences in CEJ stress. In all groups the greatest stress was observed in the cervical region. It seems the use of Fiber glass posts in weakened anterior teeth acts better than accessory fiber glass post.