Influence of root wall thickness on stress distribution in dentin following endodontic treatment

BACKGROUND: Predicting complications such as root fractures or cracks necessitates investigation of stress distribution in tooth roots under various biomechanical conditions, particularly with alterations in dimensional and mechanical properties of the tooth.

AIM: This study aimed to model functional stress distribution in the root of a devitalized tooth using three-dimensional mathematical simulation based on varying dentin wall thickness.

METHODS: A mathematical modeling approach was used to analyze the magnitude and distribution of stresses in the root of a devitalized tooth under an oblique load of 150 N at a 30°. The study compared stress levels across three tooth models with root wall thicknesses of 1.0 mm, 1.5 mm, and 2.0 mm.

RESULTS: A direct relationship was established between decreasing root wall thickness and increasing stress levels in dentin of devitalized teeth. This effect was most pronounced in the model with a 1.0-mm wall, where stresses approached the ultimate strength of dentin. Stress distribution patterns revealed the cervical region as the site of maximum concentration.

CONCLUSION: Reduced dentin wall thickness in devitalized teeth leads to increased functional stress, with peak values localized in the cervical region. Root dentin with a thickness of 1.0 mm may be subjected to stresses exceeding its structural integrity.