Influence of Cross-Section Design and Vertical Misfit on Stress Distribution in Overdenture Retaining System: 3-Dimensional Finite Element Analysis.

Abstract

To evaluate by 3-dimensional (3-D) finite element analysis the stress generated on overdenture-retaining bar system with different cross sections (round, ovoid, or Hader) and misfit levels (50, 100, and 200 μm) manufactured with different metallic alloys (Au type IV, Ag-Pd, Ti cp, and Co-Cr). Three-dimensional finite element models were modeled using specific 3-D software (SolidWorks) and imported into mechanical simulation software (ANSYS). A displacement simulating the settlement of the screw was performed until the infrastructure was settled properly on the prosthetic platform. Higher misfit levels caused higher stress on the overdenture-retaining bar system components, where (1) Hader bar presented the highest values (bar = 730.71; screw = 59.66, and periimplant bone tissue = 42.96, in megapascal) and (2) round bars made with type IV Au alloy presented lower stress values on the bar framework (193.99 MPa) and screw (10.27 MPa). Higher vertical misfit increased the stress values on the overdenture-retaining bar system; complex cross-sectional designs increased stress values on the bar framework, prosthetic screw, and periimplant bone tissue; stiffer alloys caused higher stress values on all the studied conditions.