Stress distribution of different implant connections associated with multiple implant-supported prostheses

• Published in: Journal of medical engineering & technology 2018-07, Vol.42 (5), p.359-367
• Main Authors: Goiato, Marcelo Coelho, Sarauza Arsufi, Guilherme, de Medeiros, Rodrigo Antonio, Pesqueira, Aldiéris Alves, da Silva, Emily Vivianne Freitas, Sonego, Mariana Vilela, dos Santos, Daniela Micheline
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Biomechanical Phenomena; Dental implants; dental prosthesis; implant-supported; photoelastic analysis; Prostheses and Implants; Stress, Mechanical
• ISSN: 0309-1902; 1464-522X
• DOI: 10.1080/03091902.2018.1513575

In some clinical situations, the clinician may encounter previously installed implants that should be associated with other implants for a proper rehabilitation. The aim of this study was to evaluate the biomechanical behaviour of a multiple prosthesis joined by different implant connections using photoelasticity. Photoelastic models with a screwed fixed prosthesis supported by implants with different connection systems (Morse taper, external hexagon, internal hexagon, and Flexcone), and different combinations among them, were fabricated. Each assembly was placed in a circular polariscope, and axial and oblique (45°) loads of 100 N were applied on the occlusal surface of the crowns. The fringe patterns were photographed and the analysis was performed by counting the number of high-intensity fringes and also according to the stress distribution region where they appeared. Among implants of the same connection, the external connections obtained a greater number of high intensity fringes when compared to the internal connections. From the biomechanical point of view, the association between different types of connections obtained positive results.