Finite Element Analysis of Thermal Stresses in Circumferential Cast Clasps of Removable Partial Dentures

Abstract

Several studies evaluated the removable partial dentures by the finite element analysis, but none of them evaluated thermal stresses. The purpose of the study was to explore the influence of thermal oral changes induced by hot/cold liquids and food on the circumferential cast clasps of removable partial dentures. A 3-dimensional finite element method was used to explore the temperature distribution, thermal stress and the influence of thermal changes on stresses and displacements of circumferential clasps during functions. Thermal variations induce stresses in dental clasps, high temperatures having a more aggressive effect than lower one. Cold liquids and food induce high stresses in the retentive clasp arms while hot ones in the occlusal rests of the clasps and for the back action clasp also in the minor connector. The study suggests the importance of consFigureidering thermal variations for stress analyses of the cast clasps.