Influence of ridge and implant location on mandibular RPD association

Objectives: The purpose of this research was to assess, by means of the two-dimensional finite element method, the stress distribution and support structure displacement of a distal extension removable partial denture (DERPD) associated with an osseointegrated implant of 10.0 x 3.75 mm, (Bränemark System) with the ERA retention system in different shapes of alveolar ridges and implant locations.

Methods: Sixteen mandibular models were prepared in sagittal cut, which represented hemiarches with horizontal (MA to MD), distal descendant (ME to MH), distal ascendant (MI to ML) or descendant-ascendant (MM to MP) ridges; natural tooth 33; conventional DERPD, with distal plate on 33 or incisal support on the distal of 33, or implant retained DERPD, with the ERA system, located in the anterior or posterior region of the ridge. With the aid of the finite element program ANSYS 9.0, the models were loaded with strictly vertical forces of 50 N on each cusp tip.

Results: The implant showed the highest stress value in the NM (207.23 Mpa). The cortical bone showed the lowest stress value in the MC (56.94 Mpa) and the trabecular bone in NM (23.63 Mpa). It was observed in the tooth support at the highest stress value in the MD (59.68 Mpa).

Conclusion: Analysis of the Maps allowed the conclusion that placement of the implant in the anterior position associated with the DERPD with a distal plate, was the best association for preserving the abutment structures (remaining tooth and residual alveolar ridge) with regard to the demand on them in the different types of alveolar ridges studied, considering both the trend towards displacement and stress distribution.