Mechanical performance of endodontic restorations with prefabricated posts: sensitivity analysis of parameters with a 3D finite element model

摘要

Many studies have investigated the effect of different parameters of the endodontically restored tooth on its final strength,using in vitro tests and model simulations. However, the differences in the experimental set-up or modelling conditions andthe limited number of parameters studied in each case prevent us from obtaining clear conclusions about the relativeimportance of each parameter. In this study, a validated 3D biomechanical model of the restored tooth was used for anexhaustive sensitivity analysis. The individual influence of 20 different parameters on the mechanical performance of anendodontic restoration with prefabricated posts was studied. The results bring up the remarkable importance of the loadingangle on the final restoration strength. Flexural loads are more critical than compressive or tensile loads. Young’s modulus ofthe post and its length and diameter are the most influential parameters for strength, whereas other parameters such as ferrulegeometry or core and crown characteristics are less significant.