ABSTRACT
Using advanced meshless discretization computational techniques, in this work it is studied the structural response of adhesive dental bridges, analysing the effect of different resin-cements and the bridge design. For comparison purposes, three discretization techniques were used, the Finite Element Method (FEM) and two meshless methods, the Radial Point Interpolation Method (RPIM) and the Natural Neighbour Radial Point Interpolation Method (NNRPIM). 2D and 3D simulations of adhesive/tooth bio-systems were performed, assuming the adhesive with a nonlinear elasto-plastic behaviour. It was possible to conclude that the resin-cement has a clear influence over the stress concentration along the bridge and the single-retainer design increases the risk of debonding. Furthermore, the obtained results show that meshless methods are capable to obtain solutions very similar with FEM.
