The Influence of Different Gingival Thickness on Stress to Implant-Supported Overdenture and Bone

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the role of gingival thickness on stress distribution of implants-retained mandibular complete overdenture using finite element method. A computer aided design (CAD) software and finite element analysis (FEA) software were utilized to construct three dimensional (3D) models on a personal computer to analyze the proposed problem. The three models had different gingival thicknesses ranged 1, 2, and 3mm. Unilateral masticatory loads of 150 N were applied on overdenture in a vertical direction, parallel to the longitudinal axis of the implant, and 45o oblique. Loads were directed towards the central fossa in the molar region of the overdenture to form six load cases. Location of maximum Von Mises stress on gingival tissue was found at the model tip close to the load application point where the overdenture and cortical bone squeezed the gingival tissue