OBJECTIVE: To compare the tilted abutment teeth restored with or without fixed bridge on stress distribution by anisotropic finite element method when the vertical and the oblique loads are simulated.METHODS: Three-dimensional finite element model was constructed by using SCT image reconstruction technique, self-programming and ANSYS software with the anisotropic elasticity data. The static loads were simulated according to the restored and unrestored situation. The stress distribution and stress level of the second molar was recorded.RESULTS: When the vertical static load was simulated, the stress distribution of the tilted abutment teeth was much improved. Tensile stresses appeared dominantly on the mesial apex of the second molar (31.0 Mpa) before restoration and on the distal apex of the second molar (20.2 Mpa) after restoration. When the oblique load was simulated, the stress distribution changed a little.CONCLUSION: The stress distribution of the tilted abutment can be improved by restorative techniques with the use of fixed bridge; however, the clinician should lower the height of the cusp to reduce the oblique load of the abutment.
Adult Anisotropy