Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate stress distribution on posterior fixed partial dentures fabricated by using a fiber-reinforced composite (FRC) framework. Methods: Two-dimensional finite element models were fabricated of a 3-unit fixed partial denture for the missing of a lower first molar. An experimental resin impregnated glass-fibers (BR-100, Kuraray) was used as a FRC for the framework. The FRC was loaded with five varying combinations of loading position and thickness: (1) No FRC (Control), (2) top of pontic, 0.4 mm, (3) top of pontic, 0.8 mm, (4) bottom of pontic, 0.4 mm, and (5) bottom of pontic, 0.8 mm. Estenia (Kuraray) and Targis (Ivoclar) were used as veneering composites. A load of 50N simulating the maximum biting force was applied at the center of the pontic in the vertical direction. Tensile stress was examined using the COSMOS/M finite element analysis program. Results: Control model showed a concentration of tensile stresses on the cervical-side veneering composite in areas from the connector to the bottom of the pontic. The model with the FRC at the top of the pontic had almost the same stress distribution as the Control. Regardless of the type of veneering composite, the models loaded with 0.8-mm thick FRC at the bottom of the pontic showed the most effective alleviation of stresses at the cervical side of the connector and had a reduced high-stress area. Conclusion: It was concluded that the strength of FPDs could effectively be improved by reinforcing the area from the retainer to the bottom of the pontic.

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