Modeling of load transmission and distribution of deformation energy before and after healing of basal dental implants in the human mandible.

The purpose of this study was to present the amount and distribution of pressure, stress, and deformation energy when basal implants in the mandible are restored with a bridge which is loaded at two different stages of bone healing. The model geometry and material properties of the mandible were gained from CT scans of a human mandible. The material model used in this study defined bone as an inhomogeneous, linear elastic isotropic material. The masseter and temporal muscles were considered as rigid connections between the bones in typical positions and directions. The rotation axis was simulated in the temporomandibular joint. The loading force of 450 N was assumed to be in the middle between the left molar and left canine implant. In freshly operated bone, the total deformation energy is 30% higher than in healed bone, due to the defined energy absorbing soft bone areas. Approximately 90% of the deformation energy is absorbed by the bone, regardless of the healing state of the bone. The immediate rigid implant splinting distributes peak forces. To cope with these energies, the necessity of a reduction of total masticatory forces or the use of additional implants for force distribution should be considered individually.