The stress distribution of implants made of Polyaryletherketones: A 3D Finite Element Analysis

OBJECTIVE: To explore the stress distribution on the bone-implant structures caused by the Polyetheretherketone (PEEK), Polyetherketoneketone (PEKK), and titanium fixture/abutments by using the three-dimensional (3D) finite element analysis (FEA). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Six models composed of titanium, PEEK, and PEKK implant/abutments under vertical (250 N) and 45˚ oblique (100 N) loading were studied. The obtained principal and von Mises stress values from the models were evaluated. RESULTS: von Mises stresses were found to be highest in titanium implants and abutments under vertical and oblique loads. Extremely increased stress values were observed in the screws of the Polyaryletherketone (PAEK) models compared to titanium models. Lower principal stresses were observed in titanium models than PAEK models in the cancellous and cortical bone under vertical and oblique loads. CONCLUSION: PAEKs transmitted more stress to the peri-implant bone. Stress distribution in titanium models were more homogenous while stress concentrated in the bone adjacent to the coronal part of the implants and neck of the implants in PAEKs.