ANALYSIS OF LOAD-TRANSFER AND STRESS-DISTRIBUTION BY AN IMPLANT-SUPPORTED FIXED PARTIAL DENTURE

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.