Physiological Response of a Natural Central Incisor Tooth to Various Loading Conditions: A 3D Finite Element Study

Abstract

This study evaluates the influence of different loading angles and the area of loading on the ensuing stress distribution and the physical response of a natural central incisor tooth, using a 3D finite element analysis. The CAD model of the incisor tooth assembly (including enamel, dentin, periodontal ligament, pulp, gingiva and jaw bone) was subject to an external (chewing) load of 100 N, over four different areas and at four different angles along the vertical. It was observed that the tooth experiences high von-Mises equivalent stresses and high bending when the load applied is closer to the incisal edge of the crown. Also, the stresses on the dentin, in general, increased with the increase in the loading angle regardless of the area of loading; with the highest stress (~70 MPa) generated at 45° angle. The percentage change observed in dentin von-Mises stresses was higher than that of enamel when the loading angle was increased from 0° to 45°, because of the higher stiffness of enamel and structural differences in enamel and dentin. The numerical results indicated that applying loads on incisal edge would simulate a severe loading condition for the incisor tooth.