Comparative evaluation of Von Mises stress distribution in fiber-reinforced and stainless-steel wire–composite splints under simulated traumatic loading: A three-dimensional finite element analysis

Background: Traumatic forces on anterior teeth are predominantly horizontal and differ from physiological loads in both magnitude and direction, leading to unfavorable stress transmission to the periodontal ligament and alveolar bone. This may impair healing and increase the risk of secondary damage. Understanding the biomechanical behavior of different splinting materials under such conditions is essential. Finite element analysis (FEA) is a reliable method to simulate traumatic forces and evaluate stress distribution patterns. Aim: The aim is to compare von Mises stress distribution and deformation patterns in maxillary anterior teeth stabilized with stainless steel wire–composite splints and fiber-reinforced composite splints under simulated horizontal traumatic loading using three-dimensional FEA. Materials and Methods: A three-dimensional finite element model of the maxillary anterior region of a 10-year-old child was developed using cone-beam computed tomography data. Two splint types were simulated: a 27G stainless steel wire–composite splint and a fiber-reinforced composite splint. The model included enamel, dentin, periodontal ligament, alveolar bone, and splint materials, all assumed to be homogeneous, isotropic, and linearly elastic. A standardized horizontal force was applied to the labial surfaces of anterior teeth. Von Mises stress and total deformation were analyzed. Results: Horizontal loading produced higher stress concentrations than physiological forces. Stainless steel splints showed greater stress accumulation in the splint and adjacent teeth, especially in canines and central incisors. Fiber-reinforced splints exhibited lower stress concentrations with better distribution but greater deformation. Conclusion: Fiber-reinforced composite splints demonstrated more favorable stress distribution under traumatic forces, supporting their clinical use as flexible splints in pediatric trauma management.