Biomechanical and Biomaterial Considerations of Natural Teeth, Tooth Replacements, and Skeletal Fixation

Abstract

The biomechanics of natural teeth, anklyosed teeth, and various tooth substitute combinations were studied. It was found that the periodontal ligament totally dominates the biomechanics of normal teeth, acting as an effective shear transfer layer and minimizing stress concentrations in the socket wall. It was further found that most tooth replacement concepts severely disturb the biomechanics. One combination, acrylic plus steel, was found to reproduce quite accurately the natural biomechanics. It, therefore, poses promise as a functional tooth replacement.