Biomechanical assessment of titanium, zirconia, and polyetheretherketone abutments under functional loads: A finite element study.

Purpose

To compare the biomechanical behavior of titanium, zirconia, and polyetheretherketone (PEEK) abutments in implant-supported restorations under vertical and oblique loading using finite element analysis.

Methods

Three three-dimensional models were created using SolidWorks software and analyzed using finite element software (version 11.0, Swanson Analysis, Inc., Houston, USA). Each model included a titanium implant (4.3 × 13 mm) connected to abutments made of titanium, zirconia, or PEEK. A metal-ceramic crown was designed for each case. All materials were modeled as isotropic, linearly elastic, and homogeneous. A static load of 300 N was applied either vertically or obliquely at a 45° angle. Von Mises stresses and displacements were evaluated for implant components, and principal stress analysis was performed for peripheral bone and abutments.

Results

Stress values varied according to abutment material and loading direction. Stress concentrations were primarily located at the implant neck and gingival region of the abutments. PEEK generated the highest implant stress under both vertical (208.27 MPa) and oblique (742.21 MPa) loading. Abutment stress peaked in the zirconia group, reaching 229.41 MPa under vertical and 912.43 MPa under oblique loading. The highest screw stress was recorded in the titanium abutment group under oblique force (388.98 MPa).

Conclusions

Abutment material was found to play a critical role in the biomechanical performance of implant-supported restorations, affecting stress distribution within the implant system under functional loading.