Finite element analysis to compare stress distribution of gold alloy, lithium‐disilicate reinforced glass ceramic and zirconia based fixed partial denture

Abstract Aim Clinical data indicate that veneer chipping of zirconia core is more likely than with ceramic‐fused‐to‐metal structures. The purposes of this simulation study were to: (a) use two‐dimensional finite element modeling to simulate stresses at the interface of three‐unit posterior fixed partial dentures ( FPD s) made with three different core materials; and (b) to investigate the influence of three different veneer thicknesses on the stress distribution within the veneer–core complex. Methods A mesio‐distal cross‐section of a three‐unit FPD was digitized and used to create two‐dimensional models of the teeth, supporting bone, different core materials (gold alloy, zirconia and lithia‐disilicate reinforced glass ceramic), and different pontic preparation configurations (occlusal veneer thickness 1.0, 1.5, and 2.0 mm). A simulated 100 N vertical occlusal load was applied to the standardized pontic element. Compression stress and tensile stress values were calculated by finite element analysis along the veneer–core interface and compared. Results The veneer–core interfacial stress of zirconia‐based FPD is greater than that of gold alloy and lithium‐disilicate reinforced glass ceramic core. The veneer–core interface stress value decreased with increasing occlusal veneer thickness. Conclusions Finite element modeling revealed differences in tensile and compressive stresses between different pontic preparation configurations and core materials. In general, gold alloy and lithium‐disilicate reinforced glass ceramic core provided more even stress distribution at the connector and pontic of fixed partial denture than a zirconia framework.