Influence of implant/abutment connection on stress distribution to implant-surrounding bone : a finite element analysis

Purpose: The objective of this study was to analyze and compare the stress distribution in the cortical and trabecular bone between the internal hexagon and the Morse taper systems, both with straight abutments. Materials and Methods: Two implant systems (Morse taper and internal hexagon connections) were simulated in maxillary bone. Loads of 100 N (axial) and 50 N (oblique) in relation to the implant axes were applied. The 3D finite element method was used to simulate and analyze the present study. The analyzed parameters were ultimate tensile strength and Von Mises stress. Results: Both systems presented stresses below the bone tissue physiological limit as well as a similar distribution in quantitative values, with a higher concentration of tension in the cortical surface near the neck of the implant in the two conditions of applied loads, with higher values for the internal hexagon system. When the groups were evaluated individually, the internal hexagon system showed higher compressive stresses, while in the Morse taper system, the highest values were traction. Conclusions: There was a difference in the stress location on the prosthetic components of the systems studied; however, it did not influence trabecular bone stress generation. © 2014 by the American College of Prosthodontists.