Finite Element Analysis Of Low Elastic Modulus Implant Crown

This study aims to evaluate the stress cushioning effect of low elastic modulus materials, such as rubber and polymers, in implant crown restorations. Using the finite element method, we analyze and compare the influence of different crown restoration materials on stress distribution within dental implants. Three-dimensional finite element models of implant crown restorations of the right mandibular first molar were established. Six different crown restoration materials, including polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), polyurethane rubber (PUR), resin ceramic composites (Vita Enamic), resin-infiltrated glass-ceramic matrix (Lava Ultimate), zirconia ceramic (Cercon) and polyether ether ketone (breCAM), were used to fabricate the crown restorations. The crowns were subjected to a 0.1 mm displacement load or a 200 N force load applied to the occlusal surface of the mandibular first molar. Finite element analysis was conducted using ANSYS Workbench 2021 R2 (ANSYS, USA). Under a 0.1 mm displacement load, Cercon had the highest max equivalent stress (937.30 MPa), and PUR the lowest (0.47 MPa), mainly within the crown restoration. For the surrounding alveolar bone, Cercon also had the highest (26.61 MPa) and PUR the lowest (0.03 MPa). Under the same displacement load, crown restorations made of rubber and other low elastic modulus polymer materials exhibited lower stress concentration in implant components and alveolar bone around implants compared to Cercon. These findings provide theoretical support for their potential application as a transitional restoration such as progressive weight-bearing in implant dentistry.