Stress distribution in peri-implant bone, implants, and prostheses: 3D-FEA of marginal bone loss and prosthetic design

Abstract

Objective: In response to the demand for dental implants, extensive research has been conducted on methods for transferring load to the surrounding bone. This study aimed to evaluate the stresses on the peripheral bone, implants, and prostheses under scenarios involving of the following variables: prosthesis designs, vertical bone heights, load angles, and restorative materials. Material and Methods: Three implants were inserted in the premolar and molar regions (5-6-7) of the two mandibular models. Model 1 represented 0 mm marginal bone loss and Model 2 simulated 3 mm bone loss. CAD/CAM-supported materials, hybrid ceramic (HC), resin-nano ceramic (RNC), lithium disilicate (LiSi), zirconia (Zr), and two prosthesis designs (splinted and non-splinted) were used for the implant-supported crowns. Forces were applied vertically (90°) to the central fossa and buccal cusps and obliquely (30°) to the buccal cusps only. The stresses were evaluated using a three-dimensional Finite Element Analysis. Results: Oblique loading resulted in the highest stress values. Of the four materials, RNC showed the low stress in the restoration, particularly in the marginal area. The use of different restorative materials did not affect stress distribution in the surrounding bone. The splinted prostheses generated lower stress magnitude on the bone, and while more stress on the implants were observed. Conclusion: In terms of the stress distribution on the peri-implant bone and implants, the use of different restorative materials is not important. Oblique loading resulted in higher stress values, and the splinted prosthesis design resulted in lower stress.

KEYWORDS

Biomechanics; Dental implant; Finite element analysis; Prosthodontics; Restorative dentistry.