Evaluation of PEEK and zirconia occlusal rest designs for removable partial dentures based on finite element analysis

Purpose We aimed to assess removable partial denture occlusal rests composed of polyether-ether-ketone (PEEK) and zirconia, using finite element analysis.Methods Three-dimensional PEEK and zirconia rest models, including the occlusal rest (1.5 mm thickness at the basal portion, 3.0 mm width) and minor connector (1.5 mm thickness, 6.0 mm height), and rest seat models with mechanical properties of enamel were constructed. The radius of transitional curvature between the rest and minor connector was 0.1-0.5 mm. The rest and rest seat model interfaces were set as frictional contacts (μ = 0.1), and the base of the rest seat model was restrained in all the directions. A 100 N downward load was applied perpendicular to the bottom surface of the minor connector. The maximum value of the first principal stress (Max-S1) was compared to the flexural and fatigue strengths of each material. Occlusal rests with 1.0-2.0 mm thickness, 2.0-3.5 mm width, and 0.5 mm radius of transitional curvature were analyzed.Results Max-S1 was observed at the transitional part and decreased with increasing radius of the transitional curvature, rest width, and thickness. PEEK rests with at least 1.5 mm thicknesses and 3.0 mm widths showed lower Max-S1 than the flexural strength. Max-S1 of all PEEK rests exceeded the PEEK fatigue strength, whereas Max-S1 of the zirconia rests was lower than the zirconia fatigue strength.Conclusions Zirconia occlusal rests with conventional metal rest designs have sufficient fatigue strength. PEEK occlusal rests have insufficient fatigue strength and may not withstand repeated mastication.