Three-dimensional stress distribution around a dental implant at different stages of interface development

An anchor-type ceramic dental implant contained in a section of the mandibular molar region was modeled for finite element stress analysis. The distributions of stresses in the bone around the implant due to axial and transverse loading were calculated for different stages of normal and pathological development of the implant-bone interface. Highest stress concentrations are observed in the crestal region with transverse loading when spongy bone surrounds the implant immediately after surgery. Development of a lamina dura around the implant slightly reduces severe stress peaks, whereas ingrowth of connective tissue almost eliminates them.