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Updated: Jun 25, 2025
A Finite Element Approach for Locating the Center of Resistance of Maxillary Teeth
Published on: April 8, 2020
Exploring the bio-mechanical behavior of PEEK and CFR-PEEK materials for dental implant applications using finite
Kandula Uday Kumar Reddy1, Aqshat Seth1, Amol Vuppuluri1
1Department of Mechanical Engineering, Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS), Pilani - Hyderabad Campus, Hyderabad, India.
Purpose:
This study explored the bio-mechanical properties of polyether ether ketone (PEEK) and carbon fiber reinforced-PEEK (CFR-PEEK) as potential alternatives to traditional dental implant materials, such as titanium (Ti) and zirconia (ZrO2). Conventional implant materials often exhibit stress shielding leading to peri-implant bone loss and implant failure.
Study Selection:
Finite element analysis using a three-dimensional computer-aided-design (3D CAD) model of the jawbone with various implant materials (titanium, zirconia, PEEK, and CFR-PEEK) incorporated was implemented to assess the effectiveness of PEEK and CFR-PEEK. Two loading conditions (50 and 100 N) were applied in centric (case-1) and eccentric (case-2) to mimic the oral loading conditions.
Results:
Titanium and zirconia implants were found to exhibit higher levels of stress shielding and therefore pose greater risks of bone loss and implant failure. Conversely, CFR-PEEK implants demonstrated more-uniform stress distributions that reduce the likelihood of stress shielding compared to their conventional counterparts; consequently, CFR-PEEK implants are particularly suitable for load-bearing applications. Furthermore, maximum strain values on PEEK-implanted cortical bone reached a state of adaptation, referred to as the "lazy zone" in which bone growth and bone loss rates are equal, indicating PEEK's potential for a long-term implant utilization.
Conclusions:
PEEK and CFR-PEEK implants are promising alternatives to conventional dental implants because they provide stress shielding and promote bone health. Improved stress distribution enhances long-term success and durability while mitigating complications, and highlights their applicability to dental implant procedures.
