Abstract: |
Hybrid prostheses have recently been used as suitable treatment alternatives for edentulous individuals to restore the mastication mechanism. These prostheses utilize “All on four” concept, in which four implants are inserted into the jaw bone, and
supported by a bar. Titanium is usually used in the fabrication of “All on four” parts due to its good mechanical properties.
However, it has many drawbacks including esthetic impairment, casting issues, hypersensitivity reactions, stress shielding,
and incompatibility with imaging techniques. These drawbacks have prompted researchers to fnd alternative materials
(e.g., polymers). Recently, the new polymeric material PEEK has a major role in dentistry, due to its biocompatibility,
shock-absorbing ability, and good mechanical properties. This work used the fnite-element method to conduct stress–strain
analysis on mandible rehabilitated with a hybrid prosthesis, using PEEK in the fabrication of “All on four” parts instead
of titanium, using diferent densities of spongy bone. As the density of spongy bone is expected to infuence the choice of
“All on four” fabrication material. A 300 N vertical force was applied unilaterally, bilaterally, and anteriorly to stimulate
the diferent mastication mechanisms. The results illustrated that PEEK material reduced the stresses and strains on bone
tissues and increased the mucosal stress, compared to titanium. Consequently, this material was recommended to be used
in the fabrication of “All on four” parts, especially in the low-density model. However, further research on PEEK implants
and abutments is required in near future.
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