[Stress distribution analysis of a loaded fixed bridge by finite element method]

The fixed bridge is a common prosthesis widely used in clinical dentistry. In order to design an ideal fixed bridge which can provide the best protection of the abutments, we must study the stress distribution of alveolar bone, when the fixed bridge is under the loading. In this article, we report the application of the finite element method to examine the stress distribution of the alveolar bone of fixed bridge abutments. We have made seven vertical loading models and two oblique loading models. A quantitative analysis result has been obtained and the stress distribution result drawn up by a computer. The results of this analysis are as follows: 1. Under the seven vertical loadings, the bearing compress stress on the mesial apex of the second bicuspid is large. In this area the compress stress is largest, when the vertical loading is applied on the two-abutment tooth and pontic, the sigma 2 is -120.0 but the stress of alveolar bone of the molar is uniform. 2. Under the oblique loading, by the mesial apex of bicuspid are borne the tensile stress and compress stress, the latter is larger than the former, and the sigma 2 is -75.0. 3. The molar is an ideal abutment tooth for the fixed bridge.