Stress distribution of overdenture using odd number implants - A Finite Element Study

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Engineering
• Dental Implantology
• Biomechanics

Background:

• Locator connections are used for retaining mandibular overdentures.
• The number of implants supporting overdentures can influence stress distribution.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze stress patterns in mandibular overdentures retained by three versus five implants using locator connections.
• To evaluate stress distribution in implant components, surrounding bone, and mucosa under varying vertical loads.

Main Methods:

• Three-dimensional (3D) finite element models of mandibular overdentures supported by three and five implants were created.
• Vertical loads (50N, 100N, 150N) were applied to simulate chewing forces.
• Von Mises stresses were assessed in the implant complex, overdenture, mucosa, and adjacent bone tissues.

Main Results:

• Stress induced in the overdenture was higher with three implants compared to five implants.
• Maximum Von Mises stresses were concentrated in the implant complex across all models and loading conditions.
• Minimal stress was observed in the mucosa layer, indicating good load distribution.

Conclusions:

• Increasing the number of implants from three to five for mandibular overdentures effectively reduces stress concentration in the implant complex.
• Overdenture material adaptability plays a crucial role in distributing load stress and minimizing deformation.
• Five-implant retained overdentures offer a more favorable stress distribution profile compared to three-implant systems.