Introduction: The success of bone-implant prostheses depends on several factors, among them an adequate distribution and passive adaptation of occlusal loading.
Objective: this study evaluated the stress distribution in mandibular implant-supported prosthesis with internal connection morse taper interface, under effect of number of implants (4 or 5) and loadings (bilateral 100 N, bilateral 300 N).
Materials and methods: the virtual models were subjected to analysis by 3D finite element method, across four experimental conditions.
Results: The stress values were evenly distributed to the peri-implant bone and implants in all simulated conditions. Stress values did not increase in the same proportion as the increase in the applied load (from 100 to 300 N). The stress value was 1.1 times higher on the implants and nearly doubled (1.5-2 times) on the peri-implant bone.
Conclusion: For mandibular implant-supported prosthesis, the morse taper interface is strongly recommended, with similar mechanical demand for four and five implants in both loading conditions. Five implants offered no additional benefit over four implants. The commercial pure titanium frameworks presented stress values close to the yield strength of the metal, especially at the intersection with the cantilever.
Keywords: Biomechanics; Bone strain; Dental implants; Finite element analysis; Multiple prostheses.
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