Comparative Evaluation of Stress Distribution of Zirconia, Cobalt Chromium and Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) Framework Material on an Atrophic Maxilla in All-on-6 Implant Treatment Concepts – A 3 Dimensional Finite Element Analysis

Abstract

Aims: To evaluate the effect of prosthetic framework material on the stress distribution patterns of All-on-Six implant support system under vertical and oblique loading. Methods and Material: The CBCT images of the maxilla were converted to stereo lithography file. HYPERMESH software system was accustomed to convert 3D pictures into numerical models. Geometric model of short implant and zirconia, cobalt chromium and polyetheretherketone (PEEK) framework material were created using SOLID EDGE software and were then be inserted in the bone model. A total of six models were constructed with three different types of framework materials with four implants in the anterior maxilla region and two distal short implants and mini-abutments. The prosthetic frameworks were made with 14 teeth (central incisors to second molar bilaterally). The models were transferred through the solid works simulation program for finite element analysis and stress distribution investigation. An oblique load of 150N with 300 inclination in the linguo-buccal direction and vertical loads parallel to long axis of the tooth with 100 N magnitude were applied unilaterally on the posterior teeth of each framework. Results: Principal and Von misses stress in PEEK framework were least when compared to stresses in zirconia and cobalt chromium framework on vertical loading and oblique loading. Conclusions: PEEK as a framework material had least stress for the All on Six implant treatment concepts on vertical and oblique forces than zirconia and cobalt chromium framework.