Biomechanical comparison between Y-TZP and titanium dental implants using finite element analysis

Yttria-stabilized tetragonal zirconia polycrystal (Y-TZP) implants have been proposed as an alternative to titanium (Ti) implants because of their aesthetic and mechanical properties. This in silico study compared the elastic strain distribution of Y-TZP and Ti dental implants under axial and oblique loads using a previously validated finite element model. Two finite element models, with identical geometry, boundary conditions, loading configuration, prosthetic crown, abutment, and screws, and differing only in implant body material, were constructed for biomechanical evaluation. Each model was subjected to a 300 N load applied axially and at 30°, and equivalent, maximum principal, and minimum principal elastic strains were evaluated in the peri-implant bone, implant body, and abutment screw. Under axial loading, peri-implant bone strain patterns were similar between Ti and Y-TZP, with peak equivalent elastic strain values of approximately 5 millistrain. Under oblique loading, the Y-TZP implant showed lower equivalent elastic strain in the implant body than Ti, with values of approximately 1.3 and 3.0 millistrain, respectively. The abutment screw also showed smaller regions of elevated strain in the Y-TZP model. Within the assumptions of this static linear elastic model, implant material stiffness influenced component-level elastic strain distribution, particularly under oblique loading. These numerical findings should not be interpreted as evidence of improved clinical performance, reduced bone resorption, or superior long-term stability. Further studies should include cyclic loading, fracture and fatigue analyses, interface stability, and patient-specific bone conditions.