European Journal of Prosthodontics and Restorative Dentistry

Digital Image Correlation and Finite Element Analysis of Bone Strain Generated by Implant-Retained Cantilever Fixed Prosthesis

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Cover Date

March 2020

Print ISSN

0965-7452

Electronic ISSN

2396-8893

Vol

28

Issue

1

Abstract

Purpose: The present study evaluated the displacement and strain generated in an implant-supported fixed prosthesis under axial and non-axial loads using two methods. Materials and Methods: Three implants were inserted in a resin block. The Digital Image Correlation (DIC) was used to measure displacement and strain generated on the surface of the resin blocks for the different load applications (500N, 1 image/second). A 3-dimensional
model was constructed and a load of 500 N was applied at an axial point and a non-axial point through finite element analysis (FEA). Results: Both methods gave similar trends for the strains, and both gave slightly higher strains with non-axial loading. FEA predicted higher strain magnitude (±11%) in comparison with DIC, but with the same mechanical behavior. According to ANOVA, the loading influenced the strain concentration. Higher strain was
generated for non-axial loading around the implant nearest to the loading. Conclusions: For implant-retained cantilever fixed prosthesis, the same load applied in the lever arm induces higher strain in the cervical area of the last implant, which suggests more damaging potential than a load applied at the center of the prosthesis.

Keywords
Dental Implant
Finite Element Analysis
Biomechanical Complications
Computerized Models