Effects of micromovement on the changes in stress distribution of partially stabilized zirconia (PS-ZrO₂) dental implants and bridge during clenching: A three-dimensional finite element analysis

Abstract

Objective. This investigation aims to evaluate the changes in stress magnitudes and distributions on Partially Stabilized Zirconia (PS-ZrO₂) dental implants and bridges and on the mandible caused by fibrous encapsulations during clenching. Materials and methods. Four 3.26 mm diameter PS-ZrO₂ dental implants with lengths of 12 mm were modelled and placed in the second premolar and first molar region on both sides of the mandible model. A rigid zirconia bridge with a thickness of 0.5 mm connects the PS-ZrO₂ dental implants placed in the second premolar and first molar. Four periodontal ligament (PDL) case studies were examined: PDL in the second premolars; PDL in the first molars; PDL in both the second premolars and first molars; and no PDL present. Results. The results reveal the magnitudes and distributions of stresses on the dental implants and connecting bridges were governed by the PDLs. A significant drop in stress levels were recorded when the PDL encapsulates the roots of the dental implants. Of the four PDL case studies, it was found that when the PDLs are present in both the second premolars and first molars the lowest stress magnitudes are generated. The analysis also revealed that, during the healing process after implant insertion and the result of fibrous encapsulation, the dental implant system will experience a varying amount of stress levels. Conclusion. This study was intended to produce more insight into the influence of the PDL on the changes in stress distribution on the dental implant system during clenching.

Key Words::

• finite element analysis
• FEA
• mandible
• zirconia implant
• periodontal ligament
• fibrous encapsulation
• PDL
• PS-ZrO₂

Acknowledgement

The corresponding author would like to express his gratitude to Endeavour Australia Cheung Kong Research Fellowship (#1988_2011) for supporting this research.

Declaration of interest: The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the paper.