Finite Element Analysis of Different Diameter to Length Ratio in Dental Implants

Objective: The aim of this study was to discuss the methodology of selecting implant with continuous changes of diameter and length. Methods: The Pro/engineering software was used to created 3-D models of dental implants with different diameters(3 mm~6 mm) and length(7 mm~16 mm), being assembled to 3-D models of mandible bone segments,which were imported into ANSYS finite element analysis software and meshed to create finite models. The values of dis-placement and Von-Mises stress of implant and bone were obtained, after models were loaded with vertical force and oblique load. Results: After models were loaded both by vertical and oblique loads, with the increase of implant diameter and length, the values of each evaluation indicators were significantly reduced(60%~80%). Effect of implant diameter was more significant(≈90%), the implant length was related to the types of loading(vertical force: 18%~60%; oblique load: 7%). The ratio construed by diameter and length was used for the selection of dental implants when safety factor was de-termined. Conclusion: Increasing the implant diameter and length can significantly reduce the displacement of implant and stress of bone tissue. Introduction of methodology of diameter-length ratio establishes a new practical and effective method for implants selection in clinical practices.