IADR Abstract Archives
Titanium vs PEEK in Dental Implant Abutments: FEA Study
Objectives: This research aims to compare the effectiveness and durability of Titanium and Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) as materials for dental implant abutments, focusing on their mechanical and thermal behaviors under realistic conditions.
Methods: Finite Element Method (FEM) analysis was employed using COMSOL Multiphysics to evaluate the mechanical and thermal performance of Titanium and PEEK abutments. The models used in the analysis included implant abutments, screws, crowns, and peri-implant bones. Two primary simulations were conducted: mechanical stress analysis and thermal dynamics analysis.
Results: Mechanical Stress Analysis: Both PEEK and Titanium abutments exhibited similar results in surface displacement under stress. However, PEEK showed an effective reduction in stress levels on the abutment, suggesting superior durability and performance.
Thermal Dynamics Analysis: PEEK demonstrated superior heat resistance compared to Titanium. Unlike Titanium implants, which can leak heat and potentially affect the surrounding tissues, PEEK's thermal insulation properties offer improved protection against temperature fluctuations.
The study also highlighted the benefits of surface alterations on implants to boost bioactivity and reduce biofilm formation, a common issue with Titanium implants that can lead to peri-implant infections. These microscopic adjustments enhance cell attachment, growth, and bone-forming properties, supporting more efficient bone integration.
Conclusions: The research underscores the potential advantages of using PEEK over Titanium for dental implant abutments. PEEK's mechanical characteristics, thermal resistance, and improved biocompatibility suggest it could be a valuable alternative to Titanium. The fabrication process utilizing advanced technologies like Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) enables personalized adjustments, improving the accuracy and functionality of the implants. Incorporating PEEK into dental procedures could transform the field of dental implantology by addressing the drawbacks associated with conventional Titanium implants.
Methods: Finite Element Method (FEM) analysis was employed using COMSOL Multiphysics to evaluate the mechanical and thermal performance of Titanium and PEEK abutments. The models used in the analysis included implant abutments, screws, crowns, and peri-implant bones. Two primary simulations were conducted: mechanical stress analysis and thermal dynamics analysis.
Results: Mechanical Stress Analysis: Both PEEK and Titanium abutments exhibited similar results in surface displacement under stress. However, PEEK showed an effective reduction in stress levels on the abutment, suggesting superior durability and performance.
Thermal Dynamics Analysis: PEEK demonstrated superior heat resistance compared to Titanium. Unlike Titanium implants, which can leak heat and potentially affect the surrounding tissues, PEEK's thermal insulation properties offer improved protection against temperature fluctuations.
The study also highlighted the benefits of surface alterations on implants to boost bioactivity and reduce biofilm formation, a common issue with Titanium implants that can lead to peri-implant infections. These microscopic adjustments enhance cell attachment, growth, and bone-forming properties, supporting more efficient bone integration.
Conclusions: The research underscores the potential advantages of using PEEK over Titanium for dental implant abutments. PEEK's mechanical characteristics, thermal resistance, and improved biocompatibility suggest it could be a valuable alternative to Titanium. The fabrication process utilizing advanced technologies like Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) enables personalized adjustments, improving the accuracy and functionality of the implants. Incorporating PEEK into dental procedures could transform the field of dental implantology by addressing the drawbacks associated with conventional Titanium implants.