Mechanical Characterization of 3D-Printed Individualized Ti-Mesh (Membrane) for Alveolar Bone Defects

Abstract

Individualized titanium mesh holds many advantages over conventional mesh. There are few reports in the literature about the effect of mesh pore size and mesh thickness on the mechanical properties of titanium mesh. This study is designed to develop an individualized titanium mesh using computer-assisted design and additive manufacturing technology. This study will also explore the effect of different thicknesses and pore sizes of titanium mesh on its mechanical properties through 3D FEA. According to this study, the mechanical properties of titanium mesh increased when the thickness decreased (0.5 mm to 0.3 mm). With an increase in mesh diameter (3 mm to 5 mm), the mechanical properties of mesh decreased. The diameter of titanium mesh has less influence on its mechanical properties than does the thickness of the mesh. Titanium mesh with a thickness of 0.4 mm is strong enough and causes less stimulation to mucosa; therefore, it is more suitable for clinical use. In addition, parameters of titanium mesh should be decided clinically according to bone defect size, defect location, and force situation.