The Effect of Occlusal Contacts in the Stress Concentration of Implant-Supported Zirconia Restorations

Abstract

The present article evaluated the effect of occlusal contacts in the stress concentration of implant-supported zirconia restorations, with Morse-taper connection implants. One implant model was analyzed according to the loading region (center of the crown or working cusp). Both systems received cement-retained zirconia crown. The peri-implant tissue was created as an isotropic resin, that has been fixed. The load of 500 N was applied in two different regions (center of the crown or working cusp). The results were analyzed in terms of von-Mises stress. The materials were assumed as isotropic, homogeneous, linear and elastic. The results showed that there is difference regarding the loading method for the calculated stress. The working cusps loadings increased the stress in the crown and the prosthetic connections. In conclusion, the occlusal contact region can modify the implant biomechanical behavior. In addition, the dentists should proper plan the prosthetic crown to reduce the stress in the zirconia crowns.