Stress distribution analysis at the bone implant interface using for different superstructure materials in an implantretained mandibular overdenture

Abstract

Aim: To analyze and depict the stress distribution at the bone–implant interface using four different superstructure materials for an implantretained overdenture, through a photoelastic study. Materials and methods: The present study included construction of photoelastic models of an edentulous mandible with two implants in the parasymphseal region. On these models, the dentures were fabricated using conventional heat cure acrylic, heat cure acrylic reinforced with NiCr, heat cure acrylic reinforced with a fiber force mesh, and heat cure acrylic reinforced with PEEK. These models were then subjected to photoelastic stress analysis. Results: The results showed a higher number of fringes in the denture fabricated with heat cure acrylic reinforced with NiCr. The fringes were better distributed in the photoelastic model with denture fabricated using heat cure acrylic reinforced with PEEK. Conclusion: The stress distribution in the bone–implant interface is markedly improved when an acrylic resin prosthesis is reinforced with PEEK as a superstructure material