The effect of three post and core systems on the stress distribution in endodontically treated teeth- A two dimensional finite element analysis

Objectives: Limited information exists on the comparison of post and core systems with different moduli of elasticity and their effect on the fracture resistance of root canal treated teeth. This study evaluates the effect three different post and core systems on the stress distribution of endodontically treated teeth by a finite element method. Methods: Different models representing endodontically treated teeth with no post and core (Model I) and endodontically treated teeth restored with three post and core systems namely, cast metal (Model II), titanium post with composite core (Model III) and glass fiber post with composite core (Model IV) were created. Boundary conditions were applied and models were loaded with 200 N force lingually at an angle of 130 degrees to the long axis of the teeth. Observations were made as von Mises stress contours and displacement plots. Results: The finite element analysis showed that endodontically treated teeth with no post and core system had stresses concentrated along the cervical third of the labial surface of the tooth. Model II showed stresses concentrated along the tooth-post and core junction. Model III exhibited stress concerted at core tooth junction. Model IV showed uniform stress distribution with some stress seen at post core and core tooth junction; root dentin showed no stresses. Conclusions: Endodontically treated teeth with no post and core distribute stresses uniformly. Placing a metal post does alter the pattern of stress distribution more to the unfavorable side. The use of glass fiber post and composite core seems to be most promising to restore the pattern of stresses closest to the original one.