RESUMEN
PURPOSE: This study employed three-dimensional (3D) finite element analysis to investigate the stress distribution patterns in a microtensile test with the goal of evaluating the effects of the bond surface area and geometry on bond strength. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Finite element models of six specimens were generated: three stick models and three hourglass models. All models simulated the bond strength between dentin and ceramic. The mechanical properties of the materials-the modulus of elasticity and Poisson's coefficient-were defined according to a literature review. The base of each specimen was considered inserted (constrained area) and possessed nodes with displacements restricted in all directions. A traction load, which was calculated to generate a uniformly distributed stress of 20 N/mm(2) at the bond interface, was applied to the top of the specimen. The distribution pattern of the generated stress was qualitatively and quantitatively measured based on color scales ranging from blue to red, according to the von Mises equivalent stress. RESULTS: Specimens with similar shapes demonstrated similar stress distributions. Ceramic specimens had a higher stress value (30.35 MPa) compared to specimens consisting of resinous cement (23.59 MPa) and dentin (19.77 MPa). At the bond interface, the specimens with square sections demonstrated stress values ranging from 22.00 to 24.20 MPa. For the circular section, the stress values ranged from 23.40 to 27.00 MPa. CONCLUSION: The maximum stress values determined for the circular and square sections were similar among specimens with the same interface area. At the bond interface, the highest stress values were observed in hourglass-shaped specimens.