Abstract
Based on the recent development of bonding technique and new ceramics, i.e. castable glass ceramics and high strength porcelain, the clinical use of laminate veneer crowns has been expected. The purpose of this study is to analyze the stress distribution in laminate veneer crowns and to establish the most effective clinical use.
Using some upper central incisor models, three dimensional finite element analysis was carried out to investigate the effects of various mechanical factors: location of loading points, preparation designs and type of ceramics. In each experiment, 180N loading force was applied to the model at 45 degree to the tooth axis.
The results were summarized as follows
1. By the load at the mesial line angle, the highest tensile stresses were caused in laminate veneer crown.
2. In case of covering the incisal edge, the tensile stresses were caused higher in laminale veneer crown.
3. It was found that the stress distribution pattern of Dicor crown was similar to those of CD-200 and Optec.
