The finite element analysis of the effect of ferrule height on stress distribution at post-and-core-restored all-ceramic anterior crowns

The purpose of this study was to compare the effect of ferrule with different heights on the stress distribution of dentin and the restoration-tooth complex, using the finite element stress analysis method. Three-dimensional finite element models simulating an endodontically treated maxillary central incisor restored with an all-ceramic crown were prepared. Three-dimensional models were varied in their ferrule height (NF: no ferrule, 1F: 1-mm ferrule, and 2F: 2-mm ferrule). A 300-N static occlusal load was applied to the palatal surface of the crown with a 135 degrees angle to the long axis of the tooth. In addition, two post and core materials with different elastic modulus were evaluated. The differences in stress transfer characteristics of the models were analyzed. Maximum stresses were concentrated on force application areas (32.6-32.8 MPa). The stress values observed with the use of a 2-mm ferrule (14.1/16.8 MPa) were lower than the no-ferrule design (14.9/17.1 MPa) for both the glass fiber-reinforced and zirconium oxide ceramic post systems, respectively. The stress values observed with zirconium oxide ceramic were higher than that of glass fiber-reinforced post system. The use of a ferrule in endodontically treated teeth restored with an all-ceramic post-and-core reduces the values of von Mises stresses on tooth-restoration complex. At rigid zirconium oxide ceramic post system, stress levels, both at dentin wall and within the post, were higher than that of fiber posts.