Biomechanical behavior of extra-narrow implants after fatigue and pull-out tests

Abstract

Statement of problem: Narrow implants have limited indications, and implant fracture may occur when these indications are not followed.

Purpose: The purpose of this in vitro study was to investigate the mechanical behavior of a 2.9-mm-diameter implant using a fatigue limit test and to investigate the Morse effect of 2 different Morse taper systems, 2.9-mm-diameter (FAC group) and 3.75-mm-diameter (CM group) implants, using a pull-out test. The null hypothesis was that the tensile strengths of the components for both systems would be similar.

Material and methods: The fatigue properties of 13 specimens under 6 loads were determined. The test was performed at 15 Hz and for 5×10⁶ cycles. In the pull-out test, the specimens were divided into 2 groups (n=8), the FAC group (2.9-mm-diameter) and the CM group (3.75-mm-diameter). Statistical analysis for the pull-out test was performed with the Student t test (α=.05).

Results: Thirteen specimens underwent the fatigue test. Only 5 did not fail when subjected to the frequency and number of cycles examined. Three of the specimens did not fail under a load of 130 N. The pull-out test showed a significant difference between the FAC and CM groups (P<.001).

Conclusions: According to the fatigue test, the extra-narrow implant (Facility; Neodent) was compatible with the low masticatory effort regions, as indicated by the manufacturer. The better performance of the FAC group in the pull-out test may be due to its design, which promotes the pure Morse effect in the implant-abutment interface, and the angulation of its internal conical portion.