Study and characterization of the crest module design: A 3D finite element analysis

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Engineering
• Dental Implantology
• Finite Element Analysis

Background:

• The crest module's geometry is crucial for managing stress and stimulating bone in the cortical region.
• Understanding crest module design's influence on stress distribution and bone response is essential for osseointegrated dental implants.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of various crest module designs on stress distribution and bone stimulation within the cortical bone region.
• To identify optimal crest module geometries for improved dental implant osseointegration.

Main Methods:

• Three-dimensional finite element analyses (FEA) were performed on mandibular cross-sections with osseointegrated dental implants.
• Cylindrical, divergent, convergent, and cup-shaped crest module designs were numerically modeled and analyzed.
• A maximum occlusal load of 250 N was applied at a 30-degree angle to assess stress and strain patterns.

Main Results:

• Divergent crest modules with angles of 14 degrees or greater exhibited the highest pathologic stress and strain peaks.
• Extended divergent crest module designs promoted the highest levels of physiologic bone stimulation via compression.
• These extended designs also resulted in the lowest tensile and shear stresses and strains in the cortical bone region.

Conclusions:

• Slightly divergent, smooth crest modules extending to the cancellous bone enhance surface area for stress dissipation.
• This design promotes a larger bone-implant contact area and physiologic bone stimulation, leading to a robust interface.
• Optimized crest module geometry is key to achieving a healthy and stable bone-implant interface.