Biomechanical Performance of Zirconia–Calcium Silicate–Silver Hybrid Dental Crown Under Static and Transient Dynamic Loading: A Finite Element and TOPSIS-Based Multi-Criteria Evaluation

Abstract

All ceramic dental crowns are widely used in posterior restorations; however, their long-term biomechanical performance remains limited by stiffness mismatch and inadequate stress distribution under functional loading. This study aims to evaluate the biomechanical behavior of zirconia–calcium silicate–silver hybrid crown materials under static and transient dynamic loading conditions and to identify optimal compositions using a multi criteria decision making framework. A three-dimensional finite element model of a crown and tooth with bone system was developed, incorporating nine hybrid compositions (C1–C9) with experimentally derived material properties. Static and transient dynamic loading were applied to simulate physiological mastication. Biomechanical outputs, including von Mises stress and total deformation, were integrated with mechanical properties (hardness, fracture toughness, and elastic modulus) using the TOPSIS method. Results showed that crown stress ranged from 7.46 to 9.78 MPa under static loading and increased to 7.54–10.46 MPa under dynamic conditions (3%–7% increase). Monolithic zirconia exhibited significantly higher stress (up to 19.32 MPa). The periodontal ligament demonstrated a stress reduction of approximately 25%–30% under dynamic loading, indicating its damping role. Deformation remained nearly constant (0.200 mm) across all materials. TOPSIS ranking identified C5 (Ci = 0.777) and C9 (Ci = 0.711) as optimal candidates. The findings demonstrate that hybrid compositions with balanced stiffness improve stress distribution and biomechanical compatibility. The integrated FEA–TOPSIS approach provides a robust framework for optimizing dental restorative materials under realistic loading conditions.