How do implant threads and diameters affect the all-on-four success? A 3D finite element analysis study

BACKGROUND: The effect of different thread designs and diameters on the all-on-four concept is unclear. OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study was to clarify the differences in stress distribution of dental implants with various thread designs and diameters based on the all-on-four concept with three dimensional (3D) finite element analysis (FEA). METHODS: A 3D model of a totally edentulous mandible was used to perform the FEA. Four different models (M1, M2, M3, and M4) including 3.5 and 4.3 mm diameter dental implants with active and passive threaded designs were generated. The dental implants were positioned according to the all-on-four concept. The Von Mises stresses on dental implants and maximum and minimum principal stresses (Pmax and Pmin) on bony structures were calculated under vertical, oblique and horizontal loads. RESULTS: For Von Mises stresses, the highest stress values were detected on the distal implants for all models. Distal implants had also the highest stress values for vertical loading. The Von Mises stresses were found to be concentrated around the implant’s neck. In all models the highest Pmax and Pmin stresses occurred in the bone surrounding the distal implant. It was noted that the active threaded implants showed the highest Pmax and Pmin stress values. CONCLUSION: The implant thread design and diameter might have a strong influence on the stress values in the all-on-four concept.