Summary
To evaluate the stresses generated in upper premolars rehabilitated with ceramic fragments (table-top) of lithium disilicate on the occlusal surface. An upper premolar was modeled following its anatomical references using computer aided design software (Rhinoceros version 5.0 SR8, USA). The dental tissues were individually designed containing enamel, dentin and periodontal ligament. The main anatomical points were used as parameters for model creation. Ceramic fragments were modeled varying their maximum thicknesses as: 0.5 mm, 1.0 mm and 1.5 mm. Solid geometries were exported to the analysis software (ANSYS 17.2, USA) in STEP format. The materials were considered isotropic, homogeneous and linear, and the values of the elastic modulus of the materials and structures were used to perform a static structural mechanical analysis. The set was submitted to 200 N load. The system fixation was defined on the basis of the three-dimensional model, and the results were obtained in MPa according to the failure criteria of the analyzed materials (tensile stress). Occlusal restoration was not detrimental to mechanical behavior. Stress distribution in the internal region of the restoration was similar between the groups. Thicker fragments presented a lower concentration of tensile stress, therefore suggesting better prognosis in attenuating tensile stresses in the tooth region. More conservative occlusal ceramic fragments presented worse prognosis. However, all evaluated thickness for table-tops support the occlusal rehabilitation of upper premolars when submitted to 200 N loading.
KEY WORDS: ceramics; finite element analysis; fixed prosthesis.
How to cite this article
BORGES, A. L. S.; SILVA, R. S. R.; DE MATOS, J. D. M.; DAL PIVA, A M. O.; FILHO, O. D. A.; LOPES, G. R. S. & TRIBST, J. P. M. Table-top lithium disilicate ceramic restoration thickness effect on the stress distribution in upper premolars: 3D finite element analysis. Int. J. Odontostomat., 15(4):942-947, 2021.
