Finite Element Analysis in 2D and 3D Models for Sound and Restored Teeth

Finite element analysis (FEA) was first used in Dentistry in the 70’s to replace photoelasticity tests. Since then, many researches have been developed by association of dentists and engineers, using 2D models. Because of the development of new image acquisition techniques and the development of technical design program the use of 3D models has increased. It is difficult to analyze the mechanical behavior of sound or restored teeth using laboratorial or “in vivo” methods because many variables interplay: geometry complexity, different materials involved and different load modes, little availability of extract teeth and patient participation. FEA allows the creation of complex models and the analysis of each variable’s influence on a model constructed by the researcher, which has more significant geometric elements. The analysis already done by our group TerMic/Biomaterials from PEMM/UFRJ includes stress distribution analysis of 2D models with different modes of load on teeth in different conditions: sound, with an abfraction lesion, direct restoration (amalgam and composite resin) and indirect restoration (dental crown or fixed partial prosthesis). Nowadays our group is developing 3D models to verify the volumetric/geometric implications in results. Sound and abfraction teeth 3D models had already been done and now we are analyzing the main differences between 3D and 2D models. Validation of the results is provided by “in vitro” mechanical tests using extracted teeth.