Load distribution for screw-retained fixed dental prostheses with different implant-abutment connection: A nonlinear finite element analysis.
TL;DR
Assessing the impact of two different implant-restoration connection types on stress distribution at implant components and bone as well as displacement at the implant-abutment-restoration interface found connection design may influence stress, strain, and displacement within the implant-abutment complex and surrounding bone.
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this nonlinear finite element analysis study was to assess the impact of two different implant-restoration connection types on stress distribution at implant components and bone as well as displacement at the implant-abutment-restoration interface.
Methods
Two different implant-restoration connection types (indirect and direct) were utilized in the modeling process, and two implant-supported distal 3-unit cantilevered restorations with surrounding bone were designed. Nonlinear friction contact was defined between the implant, abutment, cap, and occlusal screw components for indirect implant-restoration connection and between the implant, abutment, and screw components for direct implant-restoration connection. Vertical and oblique forces were applied separately to the restorations under four different loading conditions. The study assessed both the magnitude and distribution of the Von Mises stresses, as well as the characteristics of displacement.
Results
Oblique load conditions resulted in increased stress and displacement values at the implant-abutment complex. Especially in the direct implant-restoration connection, the stress values in the screws and implants were notably higher. The highest displacement was observed in the screws for the indirect connection and in the abutments for the direct connection.
Conclusions
Connection design may influence stress, strain, and displacement within the implant-abutment complex and surrounding bone. Different types of implant-restoration connections may lead to variations in these biomechanical parameters. Further clinical studies are required to evaluate the clinical relevance of these findings.