Finite element analysis of stress distribution of PEEK, zirconia and titanium dental implant materials on D1-D4 bone densities in patients with bruxism

Objective: The first study using finite element analysis (FEA) in dentistry was the stress analysis of forces on teeth by Ledley and Huang in 1968. The use of this technique in dentistry has become widespread day by day. The aim of this study was to evaluate the stress and fatigue analysis of PEEK and zirconia materials, a potential alternative to titanium in dental implants for bruxic patients, using finite element analysis. Materials and Methods: In this study, titanium, PEEK and zirconium implants were designed for D1 and D4 type alveolar bone models were designed in the mandible in single tooth deficiency. Titanium, PEEK and Zirconia abutments were selected on the implants and 20 different models were created. An oblique force of 500 N and a vertical force of 1000 N were applied perpendicular and 30o angle with the long axis of the implant. Stress values were calculated by finite element stress analysis and lifetimes were calculated by fatigue analysis. Results: The stress values in D1 bone were lower than the stress values in D4 bone. Oblique force models showed higher stress values in both D1 and D4 bone densities. The highest Von Mises stress value was found in the models using zirconia material. The Von Mises stress value of PEEK material was considered failed because it exceeded the ultimate strength limit of the material (Ultimate strength, Su). Zirconia material was considered more successful than other materials due to its high yield strength (Yield strength, Sy ). Conclusion: In all models using zirconia abutments, both the principal stress values in the bone and the Von Mises stress value in the dental implants were decreased.Because the effect of zirconia abutments on titanium implants on stress distribution in oblique forces is favourable, it can be concluded that the use of these materials in bruxism patients will have a longer life in cyclic forces. While titanium implant and titanium abutment model is thought to be more safe in patients with bruxism, it should be remembered that zirconia gives more successful results against cyclic forces compared to titanium material as a result of fatigue analysis. Keywords: Dental Implant, Titanium, PEEK, Zirconia, Finite Element, Fatigue Analysis