Fracture resistance of teeth restored with five different inlays: finite element stress distribution analysis versus mechanical testing

ABSTRACT

Objectives: the purpose of this study was threefold; firstly; to determine and compare the fracture resistance of sound, class II prepared and restored human maxillary premolars with five different bonded resin- composite, ceromer and ceramic inlays, using mechanical testing and finite element analysis [FEA]. Secondly; Check the validity of the numerical model as a successful non destructive technique for teeth analysis by comparing the obtained numerical data to the experimental data. Thirdly; to assess the-stress distribution and maximum tensile stresses, using a three- dimensional FEA, in class II prepared and restored human maxillary premolars with the aforementioned five inlays