Three-dimensional finite element analysis of Aramany Class IV obturator prosthesis with different clasp designs.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the stress distribution on the alveolar bone surrounding abutment teeth and the displacement of the Aramany Class IV obturator prosthesis with two different clasp designs. Three-dimensional finite element models of an Aramany Class IV maxillary defect were constructed. Two different clasp designs on an obturator prosthesis (double Akers clasps and multiple Roach clasps) and two different load conditions (vertical and horizontal) were compared. Finite element analysis was used to calculate the equivalent stress. The difference in the clasp design of the Aramany Class IV obturator prosthesis affected the stress distribution of the alveolar bone surrounding the abutment teeth and the displacement of the obturator prosthesis. Multiple Roach clasps reduced the stress distribution on the alveolar bone surrounding the abutment teeth and the displacement of the Aramany Class IV obturator prosthesis compared to double Akers clasps.