Abstract
It is known that vertical root fractures are influenced by the canal diameter. Therefore, it is of interest to evaluate the stress distribution in three distinct root canal taper designs using finite element analysis. We used a Hyflex Nickel Titanium (NiTi) rotary file to clean and shape a few lower incisor teeth with single canals. Three designs were developed, including a 4% tapered canal preparation, a 6% tapered canal preparation and an 8% tapered canal preparation. Every tooth sample underwent cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans and any stresses were found using finite element analysis. The collected data was statistically analysed. In all three designs, the coronal area had the most stress, followed by the middle and the apical area with the least. Enamel had a higher stress value than dentin (MPa). In enamel and dentin with either oblique or vertical stress loading, design 3 (8% taper) had the highest stress value, followed by design 2 (6% taper) and design 1 (4% taper). The difference was statistically significant. Enamel had the highest Young modulus value followed by dentin and mandibular alveolar bone, while periodontal ligament (PDL) had the lowest value. In comparison to the apical and middle part, all canal preparations showed greatest enamel stress at the coronal load locations. As canal tapering rises, so does the stress.