Numerical analysis of titanium cast devices for dental implantology

The present work pertains to a numerical investigation of the casting process of titanium devices adopted for dental implantology. The analysis of the titanium framework that connects different abutments, in a multi-implant configuration, is performed evaluating the characteristics of the material that depend on the manufacturing procedure. The connecting bar is obtained by a foundry process that is controlled through a numerical simulation by using a control volume technique. This analysis leads to the possibility to have detailed information on the process and control of the quality of the microstructure of the material produced that proves to be highly beneficial for defining mechanical properties. On the basis of the results obtained, a subsequent stress analysis can be performed, addressed to highlight critical conditions. Functional response of the whole bar-implant framework is studied by means of a numerical model, based on the geometric element method. This technique is particularly suited for describing complex morphology of the implant site. The present approach addresses a higher quality definition of the reliability of the device used in dental practice and represents a valuable tool in assisting optimisation procedures pertaining to manufacturing. In fact, the improvement of titanium devices is intended not only with regard to their mechanical performances, but also to requirements pertaining to manufacturing and clinical practice.