Abstract: A ball-plate model and the Hertz theory were used to determine the relation between distributed forces and the contact radii on a Si3N4 ball and a Vita Mark II ceramic block. A finite element model was derived to determine the distribution of stress, strain and sliding. The simulation results are practically consistent with test results reported by somebody else. The friction coefficient in the sliding area has a little effect on stress and strain in the stick zone, but its effects on stress, strain and sliding are not neglectable in the sliding zone. Friction pair materials with similar elastic modulus and Poisson's ratios are desirable for reducing relative sliding and wear. Significant sliding appears in the sliding area, and the largest sliding appears near the outer edge of the contact zone.