Comparison of Thermal Stress on Various Restorative Post and Core Materials Generated by Oral Temperature Changes Using Three Dimensional Finite Element Analysis

Background and Aim: The purpose of this study was to compare thermal stress on various restorative post and core materials generated by oral temperature changes using three dimensional finite element analysis. Materials and Methods: Three dimensional model of a mandibular right first premolar restored with a metal-ceramic crown and a dowel – core system was constructed. The thermal load applied to the three dimensional tooth model simulated the draught of hot (60°C) and cold (15°C) food or beverages for 5 seconds. Temperature distribution and thermal stress was calculated at 8 points in von Mises value of MPa, determined on the buccolingual plane using thermal loading function of finite element analysis programme. Results: The temperature gradient of the metal post and cores was smaller than that of the resin cores because of the high thermal conductivity of the former materials. Thermal changes and post-core materials have a significant effect on the thermal stress concentrations particularly located in the restorations. The gold post and core system showed the smallest thermal stress. The combination of prefabricated stainless steel post and amalgam core generated the highest thermal stress in the restoration and dentin. Cast post-core systems generated lower thermal stress when compared to prefabricated dowel and core materials. Conclusions: Cast gold post-core or non-metallic prefabricated posts-composite core materials generated better thermal stress distribution and their use in clinical practice could be recommended.