Evaluation of stress distribution of masticatory forces on Zirconia, Bioflx, and Graphene crown in primary mandibular molars using finite element analysis.

Background: A study was conducted to analyze the stress distribution of masticatory forces on Zirconia (Kids e), Bioflx (Kids e), and experimental Graphene crowns in primary mandibular molars using finite element analysis (FEA). The research aimed to assess the comparative performance of these materials to better understand their suitability for dental applications.

Settings and design: This was an in vitro study conducted using FEA models developed from cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) images of primary mandibular second molars. The study compared stress distribution on three crown materials: Zirconia, Bioflx, and experimental Graphene.

Methodology: Virtual geometry models (VGMs) of primary second molars, each restored with a Bioflx crown, Graphene crown, and Zirconia crown, were created using CBCT images. The images were processed using specialized software to reconstruct a three-dimensional model of the dentoalveolar structures. These VGMs were then used to perform FEA to evaluate stress distribution under simulated masticatory forces. The crown materials were compared for stress levels.

Results: Zirconia crowns exhibited the lowest stress values (368.3 MPa), followed by Bioflx crowns (520.92 MPa) and Graphene crowns (555.69 MPa) showing the highest stress levels. The study also found that glass ionomer cement (GIC) type I posed a higher risk of fracture in Graphene crowns, with a stress value of 130.83 MPa.

Conclusions: Zirconia crowns demonstrated superior stress resistance under masticatory forces compared to Bioflx and Graphene crowns in primary mandibular second molars. However, the use of GIC type I with Graphene crowns may increase the risk of fracture, suggesting that material selection and luting agents need careful consideration in clinical practice.