Purpose: To investigate the influence of occlusal interference in dental prosthetics using finite element analysis (FEA).

Materials and methods: The FEA model designed for this study centered on an all-ceramic, bi-layered, fixed partial denture (FPD) retained on the maxillary first premolar and molar, with the second premolar replaced by a pontic. The surrounding structures, such as the neighboring teeth, antagonists, and periodontium, were modeled. Four different load cases were designed at occlusal interferences of 0, 8, 12, and 24 μm, loaded by a simulated bite force of 300 N. Principal and von Mise stresses, as well as strain, were evaluated for all included structures.

Results: For interferences of 12 and 24 μm, failure-relevant tensile stresses in the veneering layer were observed at the occlusal surfaces. Stress found in the zirconia FPD did not reach fatigue or flexural strength for any test load.

Conclusion: Peak tensile stress was observed in close proximity to occlusal contact points, increasing with increasing occlusal interference. The FEA results suggested that the majority of occlusal stress is absorbed by the deformation of the periodontal ligament. Framework failure caused by the simulated interferences was not expected. Surface defects may ultimately lead to failure due to fracture or chipping, especially in cases of weaker ceramics or veneering.