An Optimized Dental Implant Model Using Finite Element Analysis and Design of Experiment

Purpose: To develop, analyze, and optimize a dental implant by considering square threads and varying the thread dimensions to obtain an optimal shape. Materials and Methods: For this study, finite element analysis (FEA) and numerical optimization method were integrated to develop a mathematical model. The critical parameters of dental implants were studied, and an optimized shape was obtained using response surface method (RSM) and design of experiment (DOE). The simulated results were then compared to the predicted values under optimal conditions. Results: Using the one-factor RSM design model for the dental implant and a vertical compressive load of 450 N for testing, the optimal depth to width ratio for the thread was 0.7 in order to achieve the minimum von Mises and shear stress. Conclusion: The buttress thread was found to be the optimal shape for achieving the lowest von Mises and shear stress compared to square threads, and the thread parameters were calculated accordingly, with a thread depth 0.45 times the pitch, a width 0.3 times the pitch, and a thread angle of 17 degrees. Also, due to the constant diameter of the implant, common 4-mm diameter abutments can be used interchangeably.