Strain Gauge Analysis of Occlusal Forces on Implant Prostheses at Various Occlusal Heights

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to evaluate and compare the strain development at different occlusal heights of an implant prosthesis and adjacent teeth through the use of strain gauges. Materials and Methods: A test model was constructed using autopolymerizing polyurethane resin, artificial composite resin teeth, and an implant gold crown in the mandibular first molar area. The resin block containing the implant and the gold crown was sectioned, and two expansion screws were attached perpendicular to the bottom of the resin block on the buccal and lingual sides. The expansion screws were turned to create a gap. Four groups were created based on the occlusal height of the implant gold crown. Three strain gauges were attached to the buccal surfaces of the mandibular right second premolar, implant gold crown, and second molar. Beef jerky, carrot, and bread were used as test foods. A universal testing machine was used to apply compressive forces of 300 N (beef jerky), 250 N (carrot), and 50 N (bread), and the occlusal force was measured in each group. Results: With 300 N, occlusal forces were concentrated on the adjacent teeth when the occlusal height of the implant prosthesis decreased. With 250 and 50 N, when the occlusal height of the implant prosthesis increased, the occlusal force applied to the implant prosthesis increased, but alterations in the implant crown height had little effect on the adjacent teeth. Conclusion: Different amounts of strain in the implant prosthesis and adjacent teeth were recorded depending on the occlusal height of the prosthesis. With 250 or 50 N of force, an increased prosthesis height affected the implant itself. With 300 N of force, decreased occlusal height of the prosthesis resulted in increased force on the adjacent teeth. Keywords: bite force, dental implants, dental stress analysis, pressure transducers, vertical dimension