Finite element analysis of stress distribution on a mandibular canine using marginal ridge rest and insical rest.

Abstract

ABSTRACT
Background: The aim of this study was to compare the effect of two types of rest design on the supporting tissue of natural canine.
Materials and methods: Finite Element Method was used to examine the stress on the supporting structure when applying a load of 100N on two types of rest design incisal rest and marginal ridge rest.
Results: Results showed that for the two types of rest design the maximum stress was concentrated at the apex of root surface, whereas stress demonstrated higher values at the middle area of root surface when speaking about marginal ridge rest.
Conclusion: Both designs accentuate the load on the apical area of tooth surface; although the marginal ridge rest is a conservative design hence it produces higher stress at the middle area of root surface
Key words: Rest seat, canine, stress, FEA. (J Bagh Coll Dentistry 2008; 20(2)38-41)