Finite Element Stress Analysis of PEEK, Glass Fiber and Zirconia Post-Core Sys-tems in Maxillary Central Incisor

Abstract

Objective: This study aims to analyze structural strength features (such as deformation and stress distributions) of polyether ether ketone (PEEK), glass fiber and zirconia post-core systems utilized in maxillary central incisor roots by means of finite element analysis (FEA).
 Material and Method: The main geometry of maxillary central incisor considered in this study was obtained using an intraoral scanner. Other sub-components were modelled in a parametric computer aided design software based on the data obtained from the literature. Glass fiber, PEEK and zirconia were defined as post materials. 100 N force was applied with 45° angle on the palatal surface of veneered tooth in the FEA set up. The FEA was solved with linear material model and static linear loading assumptions through a commercial FEA code. Visuals and numerical results related to equivalent stress (Von Mises) and deformation distributions were interpreted.
 Results: Maximum equivalent stress value of 32.76 MPa was calculated at the PEEK post-core. The maximum values for glass fiber and zirconia posts were 0.80 MPa and 21.17 MPa, respectively. Maximum equivalent stress values at the tooth roots in the glass fiber, zirconia and PEEK posts were 72.79 MPa, 69.01 MPa and 58.22 MPa respectively.
 Conclusion: The stress magnitude experienced at the PEEK post-cores on the root was lower than glass fiber post and zirconia post. Regarding to this, although, it may be concluded that PEEK may reduce the complications that require tooth extraction in clinical practice, further researches are suggested including clinical trials.