Werner Winter1, Matthias Karl. 1. Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany.
Abstract
OBJECTIVES: It was the purpose of this finite element analysis to compare the implant-restoration connection created by Procera Implant Bridge (PIB) and conventional screw-retained prostheses with respect to screw loading and gap formation. METHOD AND MATERIALS: Finite element models representing a conventional screw-retained restoration and a PIB were set up. A horizontal load of 200N was applied on the restorations while resulting gap formation and screw loading was recorded. RESULTS: Increasing the preload of the retaining screws led to a decrease in gap formation. Smaller gaps were observed in the conventional restorations. Loading of the screws was of comparable magnitudes in both cases. CONCLUSION: The use of screw-retained implant-supported restorations representing butt-joint connections at the restorative interface may result in increased gap formation.
OBJECTIVES: It was the purpose of this finite element analysis to compare the implant-restoration connection created by Procera Implant Bridge (PIB) and conventional screw-retained prostheses with respect to screw loading and gap formation. METHOD AND MATERIALS: Finite element models representing a conventional screw-retained restoration and a PIB were set up. A horizontal load of 200N was applied on the restorations while resulting gap formation and screw loading was recorded. RESULTS: Increasing the preload of the retaining screws led to a decrease in gap formation. Smaller gaps were observed in the conventional restorations. Loading of the screws was of comparable magnitudes in both cases. CONCLUSION: The use of screw-retained implant-supported restorations representing butt-joint connections at the restorative interface may result in increased gap formation.