Stress analysis of an overdenture using the finite element method

Area of Science:

• Dental prosthetics
• Biomaterials engineering
• Biomechanics

Background:

• Overdentures offer improved stability but can concentrate stress on the residual ridge.
• Understanding stress distribution is crucial for optimizing overdenture design and patient outcomes.
• Various reinforcement techniques exist, but their impact on stress distribution requires detailed analysis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate how different overdenture reinforcement methods affect stress distribution in the residual alveolar ridge.
• To compare the efficacy of various reinforcing materials and placements using advanced simulation.

Main Methods:

• Utilized three-dimensional finite element analysis (FEA) to model mandibular overdentures.
• Simulated four conditions: no reinforcement, chrome-cobalt wire reinforcement, cast metal framework, and a combination of framework and coping reinforcement.
• Analyzed stress patterns under simulated occlusal loading.

Main Results:

• All tested reinforcement methods reduced stress concentration under the loaded side of the denture.
• Reinforcement adjacent to the coping top and medially showed the most significant stress reduction.
• The cast metal framework, especially with coping top reinforcement, provided the most even stress distribution across the residual alveolar ridge.

Conclusions:

• Reinforcing overdenture structures is a viable strategy to mitigate stress on the residual alveolar ridge.
• Specific reinforcement placements, particularly near the coping top, are more effective in dissipating stress.
• FEA is a valuable tool for evaluating and optimizing prosthetic designs for improved biomechanical performance.