How to design a more stable dental implant: A topology optimization approach

The body shape design is one of the most influential factors in the success of dental implants. This study presents a strategy to design the geometrical features of a threaded implant. The topology optimization technique is applied to identify appropriate spaces in the implant body to be removed for bone growth. The exact shape, position, and dimensions of the spaces are determined using a finite element model. This model consists of a mandibular segment, implant, abutment, and crown. During the optimization process, some grooves and holes are created in the implant by removing redundant materials. Bone growth into these spaces causes mechanical locking between the implant and surrounding bone. The smoothing process is performed following the optimization to remove stress concentration. The results indicate that this design strategy reduces the maximum displacement of the implant by approximately 20%. Moreover, a reduction in the implant's volume and an increase in the contact area between the implant and bone are obtained. All mentioned issues would increase the stability and reduce the risk of implant loosening. Finally, using conventional production methods, the optimal implant was produced from titanium alloy to demonstrate the possibility of production of the proposed design.