Influence of Cusp Inclination on Stress Distribution in Implant-supported Prostheses. A Three-dimensional Finite Element Analysis

Purpose: The aim of this study was to assess the influence of cusp inclination on stress distribution in implant-supported prostheses by 3D finite element method.

Materials And Methods: Three-dimensional models were created to simulate a mandibular bone section with an implant (3.75 mm diameter x 10 mm length) and crown by means of a 3D scanner and 3D CAD software. A screw-retained single crown was simulated using three cusp inclinations (10 degrees, 20 degrees, 30 degrees). The 3D models (model 10d, model 20d, and model 30d) were transferred to the finite element program NeiNastran 9.0 to generate a mesh and perform the stress analysis. An oblique load of 200 N was applied on the internal vestibular face of the metal ceramic crown.

Results: The results were visualized by means of von Mises stress maps. Maximum stress concentration was located at the point of application. The implant showed higher stress values in model 30d (160.68 MPa). Cortical bone showed higher stress values in model 10d (28.23 MPa).

Conclusion: Stresses on the implant and implant/abutment interface increased with increasing cusp inclination, and stresses on the cortical bone decreased with increasing cusp inclination.