This study compared the internal stress distribution in a sound tooth with that in an endodontically treated tooth, by the finite element method, in a two-dimensional, lower premolar model, under an axial load of 30 kgf applied to three points (primary occlusal contact and stabilizing occlusal contact). Results indicated that there was a greater cumulation of stress in the buccal half of both teeth. In both models, peak stress was observed at the places where loads were applied. The restored tooth presented greater stress due to the greater Young's modulus of the utilized restoring materials. It was therefore demonstrated that there are differences in the distribution of internal stress between both models
Cast metal post and core; Internal stress distribution; Finite element method
