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Bioelectric Analyses of an Osseointegrated Intelligent Implant Design System for Amputees
Published on: July 15, 2009
Stress patterns on implants in prostheses supported by four or six implants: a three-dimensional finite element
Guilherme Carvalho Silva1, José Alfredo Mendonça, Luiza Randazzo Lopes
1Department of Restorative Dentistry, School of Dentistry, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil. guilhermeccs@ufmg.br
Summary
The All-on-Four system experienced higher stresses than a six-implant prosthesis, particularly on tilted implants. Cantilever loads significantly increased stress in both dental implant configurations.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Dental Implantology
- Finite Element Analysis
Background:
- Maxillary prostheses require robust biomechanical support.
- The All-on-Four system and multi-implant configurations are common solutions.
- Understanding stress distribution is crucial for long-term implant success.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the biomechanical behavior of the All-on-Four system versus a six-implant prosthesis.
- To analyze von Mises stresses on implants under various loading conditions using three-dimensional finite element method (FEM).
Main Methods:
- Developed 3D FEM models for All-on-Four and six-implant supported maxillary prostheses.
- Simulated four loading conditions: full mouth biting, canine disclusion, cantilever load, and no cantilever load.
- Quantified and localized maximum von Mises stresses on implants.
Main Results:
- Peak stress consistently occurred at the neck of distal tilted implants in both configurations.
- The All-on-Four model exhibited 7-29% higher von Mises stress values compared to the six-implant model.
- A cantilever load approximately doubled the maximum von Mises stress in both models.
Conclusions:
- Stress patterns were similar between the All-on-Four and six-implant systems.
- Increasing implant number reduced peak stress.
- Cantilever loading significantly elevated stress, highlighting its detrimental effect on implant biomechanics.

