Biomechanical Analysis of an Implant Splinted to Endodontically treated Tooth

Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate the biomechanical interactions of endodontically treated tooth/implant-supported system with two levels of periodontal support under three load conditions by using Finite Element Method (FEM). Materials and Methods: A finite element (FE) model containing a Frialit-2 implant (placed in the first molar position) splinted to the second premolar with two levels of periodontal support (distance from crown tip to alveolar bone (Lcrown): distance from alveolar bone to post apex (Lpost) = 1:1 and 2:1) was constructed to perform the simulations. Non-linear contact elements were used to simulate a realistic interface fixation within the implant system. Stress distributions in the endodontically treated tooth/implant-support system with different levels periodontal supports were observed under three axial load conditions (normal, light and heavy contacts on premolar). ANOVA was used to test for relative importance of the investigated factors (periodontal support and load condition), and main effects for each level of the investigated factors in terms of the stress values were performed. Results: The result indicated that the load condition was the main factor affecting the stress developed in the endodontically treated tooth/implant-supported system regardless of periodontal support. The stress values increased on post and dentin were found when the ratio of Lcrown to Lpost was two for all load conditions. Light contact on endodontically treated tooth could reduce the stress values on post, dentin and implant obviously compared to other load conditions when periodontal support was compromised. Conclusions: Load condition was the main factor affecting the stress distribution of the endodontically treated tooth/implant-supported system. When Lcrown/Lpost ratio is unfavorable, minimizing the load magnitude on the endodontically treated tooth area through occlusal adjustment procedures to redistribute the stress is recommended.