DOI: 10.11607/ijp.4345, PubMed ID (PMID): 26523725Pages 627-630, Language: EnglishMenini, Maria / Pesce, Paolo / Bevilacqua, Marco / Pera, Francesco / Tealdo, Tiziano / Barberis, Fabrizio / Pera, PaoloPurpose: The aim of this study was to analyze through a three-dimensional finite element analysis (3D-FEA) stress distribution on four implants supporting a fullarch implant-supported fixed prosthesis (FFP) using different prosthesis designs.
Materials and Methods: A 3D edentulous maxillary model was created and four implants were virtually placed into the maxilla and splinted, simulating an FFP without framework, with a cast metal framework, and with a carbon fiber framework. An occlusal load of 150 N was applied, stresses were transmitted into peri-implant bone, and prosthodontic components were recorded.
Results: 3D-FEA revealed higher stresses on the implants (up to +55.16%), on peri-implant bone (up to +56.93%), and in the prosthesis (up to +70.71%) when the full-acrylic prosthesis was simulated. The prosthesis with a carbon fiber framework showed an intermediate behavior between that of the other two configurations.
Conclusion: This study suggests that the presence of a rigid framework in full-arch fixed prostheses provides a better load distribution that decreases the maximum values of stress at the levels of implants, prosthesis, and maxillary bone.
