A finite element analysis of the stress at the restoration-tooth interface, comparing inlays and bulk fillings

A finite element investigation comparing bonded inlays and directly placed restorations is presented. The stress build-up due to the contraction of th e restorative composite and the composite luting cement was computed using a finite element model accounting for the time-dependent, elasto-visco-plas tic behaviour of the composite. In addition, the stresses generated in the restoration due to occlusal loading were computed. It was found that inlays , in general, generate higher stresses during curing, particularly along th e interface between the cement and the dentine at the base of the cavity. T his is probably due to a reduced capacity for stress relief through viscous flow during the early stages of the curing reaction. Under occlusal load, restorations placed using both techniques perform similarly, from a purely mechanical point of view. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserve d.