The influence of implant elastic modulus on the stress distribution around LTI carbon and aluminum oxide dental implants.

A three-dimensional finite element analysis (FEA) has been used to determine the effect of implant elastic modulus on stresses in tissues around LTI carbon and aluminum oxide dental implants. The finite element model was constructed to represent a baboon mandible containing a blade type dental implant. A three unit fixed bridge was modeled connecting the dental implant to a natural molar. The results of the study indicate that stress levels of approximately a factor of 3 lower in the crestal region can be expected for aluminum oxide implants when compared to the LTI carbon implants. It was also observed that the use of LTI carbon and aluminum oxide dental implants as an abutment in a fixed bridge results in a reduction of stresses in tissues around the natural tooth when compared to normal physiological stress levels.