Biomechanical investigation of maxillary implant-supported full-arch prostheses produced with different framework materials: a finite elements study.

Purpose: Four and six implant-supported fixed full-arch prostheses with various framework materials were assessed under different loading conditions.

Materials and methods: In the edentulous maxilla, the implants were positioned in a configuration of four to six implant modalities. CoCr, Ti, ZrO₂, and PEEK materials were used to produce the prosthetic structure. Using finite element stress analysis, the first molar was subjected to a 200 N axial and 45° oblique force. Stresses were measured on the bone, implants, abutment screw, abutment, and prosthetic screw. The Von Mises, maximum, and minimum principal stress values were calculated and compared.

Results: The maximum and minimum principal stresses in bone were determined as CoCr < ZrO₂ < Ti < PEEK. The Von Mises stresses on the implant, implant screw, abutment, and prosthetic screws were determined as CoCr < ZrO₂ < Ti < PEEK. The highest Von Mises stress was 9584.4 Mpa in PEEK material on the prosthetic screw under 4 implant-oblique loading. The highest maximum principal stress value in bone was found to be 120.89 Mpa, for PEEK in 4 implant-oblique loading.

Conclusion: For four and six implant-supported structures, and depending on the loading condition, the system accumulated different stresses. The distribution of stress was reduced in materials with a high elastic modulus. When choosing materials for implant-supported fixed prostheses, it is essential to consider both the number of implants and the mechanical and physical attributes of the framework material.