Three-Dimensional Finite Element Analysis of Lower Molar Tooth Restored with Fully Milled and Layered Zirconia Crowns

Abstract

Comparing the principle stresses distributions for both fully milled zirconia (FMZ) crown made of yattria-stabilized zirconia (Y-TZP) and layered crowns made Y-TZP core and feldspathic porcelain veneer using finite element analysis, was shot in this study. A three dimensional finite element model was constructed under ANSYS environment. The natural prepared tooth or titanium (Ti) abutment/implant complex were modeled in 3D on commercial general purpose CAD/CAM software. Crown geometry was acquired by using 3D contact scanner, which goes through successive graphical modification before assembled in a 3D finite element model. Crown made from single material (FMZ) is stiffer than layered one. The crown outer layer (Porcelain) receives more energy and stresses (of order 3.8%) than if it was made from Zirconia. While the crown core (inner part) will receive less stresses (about 38%) and energy if it was coated by Porcelain.