OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this study was to examine the biomechanical advantages of platform switching using three-dimensional (3D) finite element models. MATERIAL AND METHODS: 3D finite element models simulating an external hex implant (4 x 15 mm) and the surrounding bone were constructed. One model was the simulation of a 4 mm diameter abutment connection and the other was the simulation of a narrower 3.25 mm diameter abutment connection, assuming a platform-switching configuration. RESULTS: The stress level in the cervical bone area at the implant was greatly reduced when the narrow diameter abutment was connected compared with the regular-sized one. CONCLUSION: Within the limitations of this study, it was suggested that the platform switching configuration has the biomechanical advantage of shifting the stress concentration area away from the cervical bone-implant interface. It also has the disadvantage of increasing stress in the abutment or abutment screw.
OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this study was to examine the biomechanical advantages of platform switching using three-dimensional (3D) finite element models. MATERIAL AND METHODS: 3D finite element models simulating an external hex implant (4 x 15 mm) and the surrounding bone were constructed. One model was the simulation of a 4 mm diameter abutment connection and the other was the simulation of a narrower 3.25 mm diameter abutment connection, assuming a platform-switching configuration. RESULTS: The stress level in the cervical bone area at the implant was greatly reduced when the narrow diameter abutment was connected compared with the regular-sized one. CONCLUSION: Within the limitations of this study, it was suggested that the platform switching configuration has the biomechanical advantage of shifting the stress concentration area away from the cervical bone-implant interface. It also has the disadvantage of increasing stress in the abutment or abutment screw.