Stress Distribution Pattern of a Calculated Standardized Force on Primary Second Molar Restored with 3D-printed Resin NextDent Crown and Prefabricated Zirconia Crown: A 3D Finite Element Analysis.

Abstract

<h4>Aims and background</h4>Restoring grossly destructed primary molars requires esthetic and durable materials that can withstand masticatory forces. Although preformed zirconia crowns are strong and durable, they require extensive tooth preparation and are brittle. The three-dimensional (3D)-printed resin NextDent crowns are nonbrittle and offer better or similar esthetic alternatives, but their ability to withstand intraoral stresses remains untested. Therefore, a 3D finite element analysis (FEA) study was planned to compare the stress distribution on primary molars restored with custom-made 3D-printed resin NextDent crowns and preformed zirconia crowns.<h4>Materials and methods</h4>The study design employed two finite element models, with the endodontically restored primary mandibular second molar-one restored with a 3D-printed resin NextDent crown and the other with a preformed zirconia crown. The finite element models were exported to ANSYS software and subjected to a maximum load of 500 N.<h4>Results</h4>The von Mises stress distribution analysis shows that the 3D-printed resin NextDent crown exhibits a higher maximum stress of 383.2 MPa on the crown, compared to 351.12 MPa for the zirconia crown.<h4>Conclusion</h4>The 3D-printed resin NextDent crown can be used as an alternative to prefabricated zirconia crown for full coronal restoration of primary teeth.<h4>Clinical significance</h4>3D-printed resin crowns offer high esthetic value with precise customization, require minimal tooth preparation, and are cost-effective, making them a practical and accessible option for full coronal restoration in pediatric patients.<h4>How to cite this article</h4>Kalaskar RR, Kadam US, Sharma N, <i>et al.</i> Stress Distribution Pattern of a Calculated Standardized Force on Primary Second Molar Restored with 3D-printed Resin NextDent Crown and Prefabricated Zirconia Crown: A 3D Finite Element Analysis. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2025;18(S-1):S35-S39.