Evaluation of biomechanical effects of prosthetic components with different materials on the abutment screw

Abstract

Objectives: The aim of this study was to assess the effects of different resin-based and ceramic superstructure materials and two different abutment types on the stress distribution of the abutment screw using the method of three-dimensional finite element stress analysis. Materials and Methods: A three-dimensional implant, abutment (zirconia and titanium), abutment screw, crown (zirconia reinforced lithium silicate, lithium disilicate, polymer-infiltrated resin ceramic, and PEEK), and alveolar bone were designed using Rhinoceros 3D modeling software and VRMesh Studio software to form 8 simulations. On the models prepared, loading was made on the lingual tubercle of the maxillary right first premolar crown at an angle of 30° with 150 N force obliquely in the buccolingual direction. The von Mises stress values obtained from the abutment screw were compared according to the types of abutment and crown materials. Results: The von Mises stress values in the abutment screw were higher in the models using a titanium abutment (on average 1336.24 MPa), and the lower stress values were obtained in the models using a zirconia abutment (on average 964.26 MPa). When the prosthetic material used was changed, the stress values on the abutment screw was similar. Conclusions: Considering that the abutment screw is the weakest component of the implant-system, zirconia abutments can be used reliably in the maxillary first premolar region where aesthetic expectations are high.