Relationship Between Shrinkage and Stress

Abstract

Residual stress due to polymerization shrinkage of restorative dental materials has been associated with a number of clinical symptoms, ranging from post-operative sensitivity to secondary caries to fracture. Although the concept of shrinkage stress is intuitive, its assessment is complex. Shrinkage stress is the outcome of multiple factors. To study how they interact requires an integrating model. Finite element models have been invaluable for shrinkage stress research because they provide an integration environment to study shrinkage concepts. By retracing the advancements in shrinkage stress concepts, this chapter illustrates the vital role that finite element modeling plays in evaluating the essence of shrinkage stress and its controlling factors. The shrinkage concepts discussed in this chapter will improve clinical understanding for management of shrinkage stress, and help design and assess polymerization shrinkage research.