Biomechanical Analysis of Implant-Supported Prostheses with Different Implant-Abutment Connections

This study evaluated the influence of implant-abutment connections on stress distribution through 3D finite element analysis. Three-dimensional models of an implant-supported fixed prosthesis in the jaw retained by four implants with different connection systems (external hex and Morse taper) were analyzed. External hex connection promoted higher microstrain values, which were concentrated on the cervical region of the distal implants extending into the trabecular bone, while Morse taper connection provided a more even distribution of the microstrain on all implants. Implant-supported fixed prostheses with external hex connections tend to concentrate strain in the distal implants, while Morse taper connection promoted a better situation. On the other hand, there was greater demand on the prosthetic screws and abutments of Morse taper connections than on external hex connections.