Influence of attachment configuration on stresses in completely edentulous mandibular ridge with an implant-retained overdenture: A finite element analysis

Abstract

Aim: To evaluate and compare the stress distribution in peri-implant area and posterior region of completely edentulous mandible rehabilitated using implant-retained overdenture (IOD) with two types of ball attachment configuration, i.e., rigid and resilient. Materials and methods: Two mathematical models were prepared simulating completely edentulous mandibular ridge. Model 1 represented implant with rigid stud attachment. Model 2 represented implant with resilient stud attachment. Both the models were subjected to the compressive force of 35 N. The stresses in the peri-implant area and posterior region of the mandible were evaluated and compared for both the models. Results: The IOD with rigid stud configuration showed 12.1% higher peri-implant stresses than resilient configuration, whereas the resultant stress values in posterior edentulous region were 1.5% lower with resilient configuration. Conclusion: Highest stress value was seen in the crestal part of bone around the implant with both rigid and resilient attachment configuration. Implant-retained overdentures with resilient stud attachment showed better dissipation of forces when compared with rigid attachment. Clinical significance: Correct choice of attachment configuration can influence the peri-implant stresses in IOD, which in turn reduces the complications that can be a result of excessive stresses around the implant.