RESUMO
AIM: To compare stress distribution between a fractured maxillary central incisor restored with direct composite resin only (CR) or associated with different post materials, using finite element analysis. METHODOLOGY: A three-dimensional model of a sound maxillary central incisor and supporting structures was constructed, using data from the dental literature. Changes were made in the crown region to create a tooth with a restored crown fracture. A composite resin restoration only and restorations associated with different tapered post systems (glass fibre, carbon fibre, titanium and zirconia ceramic) were also evaluated, resulting in six experimental models. A static chewing pressure of 2.16Nmm(-2) was applied to two areas of the palatal surface of the tooth. Stress distribution was analysed under a general condition and in the structures of the models separately. RESULTS: The maximum stresses were concentrated as follows: at the cemento-enamel junction in the model with a sound maxillary central incisor, restored with CR and with a composite resin restoration associated with fibre posts; in the enamel at the post-enamel interface on the palatal surface of the model with a titanium post; and in the post of the model with zirconia ceramic post. CONCLUSIONS: None of the restorations evaluated was able to recover the stress distribution of the sound tooth. The models restored with composite resin associated with a glass or carbon fibre post had similar stress distributions to that of the model restored with CR. The different post materials were shown to have a substantial influence on stress distribution, with less stress concentration when fibre posts were used.