Biomechanical Evaluation of PEEK Material on Three-Unit Tooth-Implant-Supported Fixed Partial Dentures: A Finite Element Analysis

Purpose:Polyether ether ketone (PEEK), a recently introduced material claiming to absorb stress, has been assessed in limited studies for use in tooth-implant-supported fixed partial dentures (FPDs). This study aims to evaluate the effect of prosthetic material on stress accumulation in the teeth, periodontal tissues, and implants in tooth-implant-supported FPDs using finite element analysis (FEA). Materials -Methods: Assuming that the lower right first and second molars are missing, and using computed tomography (CT), a 3D scanner, and different software, a finite element model of a three-unit dental implant-supported FPD in which the implant is placed was created. Five experimental groups (metal supported ceramic, zirconia-based ceramic, monolithic zirconia, composite coated PEEK and monolithic PEEK) were formed. The prepared models were analyzed by applying a force of 600 N to the food piece, which was modeled as a negative copy of the pontic occlusal surface, and the maximum von Mises stress values were recorded. Results: Significant differences were observed in von Mises stress values depending on the prosthetic material. Group P (the prosthetic material with the lowest elastic modulus; PEEK) showed the highest stress values in cortical bone (108.94 MPa) and implant (722.59 MPa). Stress accumulation in dentin was highest in Group PC (107.05 MPa) and lowest in Group Z (41.89 MPa). Conclusion: Monolithic zirconia exhibited the lowest stress values in the bone tissue, implant, and tooth. Stress was concentrated around the cortical bone and the implant in PEEK materials having a low elastic modulus. Prosthetic materials can significantly affect stress values.