Fatigue strength of cantilevered metal frameworks for tissue-integrated prostheses

The design of the metal alloy framework in cantilevered sections of fixed tissue-integrated prostheses, is critical. Several cross-sectional designs have been advocated, including the popular L-shaped beam, which permits the economical use of space for tooth placement. The fatigue strengths of 15 L-shaped cantilevered framework sections of the same metal alloy were tested. The castings were divided into three groups of five according to vertical wall heights of 4, 5, and 6 mm. Fatigue durability of each sample was determined by counting the number of cycles of vertical forces required to induce catastrophic failure. Statistical analysis revealed significant differences between all three groups in the cycles counted at failure (p less than 0.0019). Fatigue strengths improved significantly with increasing vertical wall height of the L-shaped cantilevered frameworks. In addition, beam flexure was shown to be indirectly proportional to fatigue strength. Theoretical beam deflection was calculated and shown to correlate with the actual beam deflection during the testing. Theoretical calculations in static bending specific for a cross-sectional design may aid in the predictability of fatigue strength.