D. Assif et al., ANALYSIS OF LOAD-TRANSFER AND STRESS-DISTRIBUTION BY AN IMPLANT-SUPPORTED FIXED PARTIAL DENTURE, The Journal of prosthetic dentistry, 75(3), 1996, pp. 285-291
This study simultaneously examined the load transfer and stress distri
bution by an implant-supported fixed partial denture. A mandibular imp
lant framework with implants connected to the abutments was embedded i
n a three-dimensional photoelastic model of a mandible. Strain gauges
were attached on the superior surface of the framework, and a vertical
load of 7.5 kg was applied to seven points on the framework. The meas
urements derived from this simulation revealed that (1) there was a di
rect proportion between the stress distribution in the metal framework
and stresses created in the supporting structure around the implants;
(2) the mode of load transfer and stress distribution was directly pr
oportional to the distance of the components from the loading point; a
nd (3) when the cantilever was loaded, the major part of the stress wa
s distributed within the cantilever in the connection to the distal ab
utment. In this simulation, stress was distributed over the two, or ma
ximum three, closest implants with the distal implant the most stresse
d.