Abstract
AIM: To evaluate the biomechanical properties of maxillary second molars with three different cavity designs - Traditional, Conservative, and Extended - endodontic cavities using the finite element analysis method. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Three finite element models of a maxillary second molar with three different types of endodontic cavities were designed and restored. Each model was subjected to three different force loads directed at the occlusal surface. The stress distribution patterns and the maximum von Mises (VM) stresses were calculated and compared. RESULTS: Vertical force of multipoint load on the occlusal surface and lateral forces to the palatal cusp showed the maximum stress values in the extensive cavity design, followed by the traditional cavity design and then the conservative cavity design. CONCLUSION: The VM stress distribution in the conservative endodontic cavity was minimal when compared to other access cavity designs.