Analysis of the biomechanical feasibility of a wide implant in moderately atrophic maxillary sinus region with finite element method.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the biomechanical feasibility of a short wide implant in a moderately atrophic posterior maxilla.

STUDY

DESIGN

A normal maxillary posterior section with a standard screwed implant (model 1) and a moderately atrophic maxillary posterior section with a short wide screwed implant (model 2) were created. The maximum von Mises stresses in maxilla and the maximum displacements in the implant-abutment complex were evaluated.

RESULTS

When the implant diameter exceeded 5.0 mm, the most stable and minimal value of stress in maxilla and displacement in the implant-abutment complex could be achieved in model 2, which were almost all lower than those in model 1.

CONCLUSIONS

The effect of a short wide implant in the moderately atrophic maxillary sinus region is favorable and similar to that of the standard implant in the normal sinus region. From the biomechanical point of view, implant diameter exceeding 5.0 mm is a relatively optimal selection in a moderately atrophic maxilla.