FEM and Von Mises Analysis on Prosthetic Crowns Structural Elements: Evaluation of Different Applied Materials

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to underline the mechanical properties of dental single crown prosthodontics materials in order to differentiate the possibility of using each material for typical clinical condition and masticatory load. Objective of the investigation is to highlight the stress distribution over different common dental crowns by using computer-aided design software and a three-dimensional virtual model. By using engineering systems of analyses like FEM and Von Mises investigations it has been highlighted the strength over simulated lower first premolar crowns made by chrome cobalt alloy, golden alloy, dental resin, and zirconia. The prosthodontics crown models have been created and put on simulated chewing stresses. The three-dimensional models were subjected to axial and oblique forces and both guaranteed expected results over simulated masticatory cycle. Dental resin presented the low value of fracture while high values have been recorded for the metal alloy and zirconia. Clinicians should choose the better prosthetic solution for the teeth they want to restore and replace. Both prosthetic dental crowns offer long-term success if applied following the manufacture guide limitations and suggestions.

Figure 1

The mesh model of the dental prosthodontic crown. Shape of each material and layer.

Figure 2

Sensitivity mesh analysis for number of elements.

Figure 3

As earlier mentioned, the load chosen for the comparative analysis is not purely axial (purely axially along y) but shows a component along x-axis (21%) and a component along y-axis (14%).

Figure 4

Different layers of the dental crown analyzed and divided for each material used.

Figure 5

Different colors underline the stress distribution area related to the used material. The chrome cobalt alloy and the zirconium crown seem to better distribute the stress around the crown responding to vertical forces. (a) The zirconia crown distributes the stress in all the crown portions and areas even if a little stress is presented on the occlusal zone. ((b) and (c)) Chrome cobalt alloy and gold alloy guarantee perfect resistance to the fracture and a well distribution of the stress. (d) Dental resins show low resistance on fracture.