Anterior provisional fixed partial dentures: A finite element analysis.

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to analyze the stress distribution of fiber-reinforced composite provisional fixed partial denture utilizing a finite element analysis model. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Three anterior teeth were collected: upper right central, left central, and right lateral incisors. A fiber-reinforced composite strip was applied to the palatal surfaces of the teeth. Micro-computed tomographic scans were acquired of the models in order to generate three-dimensional geometrical replicas. Finite element analysis was used to assess the stress distribution of fiber-reinforced composite provisional fixed partial denture using different pontic types under static applied forces that were 100, 30, and 0 N. RESULTS: The maximum stress values were found on the unprepared natural pontic. Stress values ranged from 92.2 to 909.8, 116.4 to 646.7, and 93.8 to 393.5 MPa for composite, naturally prepared, and natural unprepared pontic, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Using unprepared natural tooth pontic in anterior provisional fixed partial denture to replace missing central incisors is considered superior to other types in terms of stress distribution.