• The Journal of Korean Academy of Prosthodontics
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• v.46 no.1
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• pp.1-11
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• 2008

Statement of problem: Over the past decade, increased demand for esthetically pleasing restorations has led to the development of all-ceramic systems. Recent reports suggest that the all-ceramic crowns have excellent physical properties, wear resistance, and color stability. In addition, numerous ceramics have excellent biocompatibility, a natural appearance, and improved physical bonding with resin composite luting agents. However, the brittle nature of ceramics has been a major factor in their restriction for universal usage. Functional occlusal loading can generate stress in the luting agent, and the stress distribution may be affected by the marginal geometry at the finish line. Tooth preparation for fixed prosthodontics requires a decision regarding the marginal configuration. The design dictates the shape and bulk of the all ceramic crowns and influences the fit at the margin. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the stress distribution within marginal configurations of all- ceramic crowns (90-degree shoulder, 110-degree shoulder, 135-degree shoulder). Material and methods: The force is applied from a direction of 45 degrees to the vertical tooth axis. Three-dimensional finite element analysis was selected to determine stress levels and distributions. Results and conclusion: The result of stress level for the shoulder marginal configuration was more effective on stress distribution at 135-degree shoulder margin. But the stresses concentrated around at 135-degree shoulder margin. The stress decreased apically at the surface between cements and alumina core, and increased apically at the surface between alumina core and veneering porcelain.