A Three – Dimensional Finite Element Analysis of Polyetheretherketone PEEK in Dental Implant Prosthesis: A Novel Implant System

This current numerical investigation aim to evaluate the benefits of substituting Titanium with CRF- PEEK for better stress distribution in implant- bone interface.

3D models of a dental implant for the first mandibular molar were constructed using the computed tomography (CT) scan. Four distinct models using a combination of titanium, carbon reinforced polyetheretherketone (CRF- PEEK), and zirconia for implant /abutment materials were studied. A three- dimensional finite element simulation was used to evaluate the stress distribution at the implant – bone interface under a compressive axial load of magnitude 120 N. A spherical indenter was used to simulate occlusal load.

Mesh independent study was converged for a very large number of elements. Finite element analysis showed: 1) there was no significant difference in the distribution pattern of stress at the implant – bone interface in the different material models studied, 2) the stress values for all prosthetic implant parts were well below the yield strength, 3) a larger deformation of PEEK implant versus titanium.

The substitution of titanium with PEEK for the implant does not provide any better stress distribution and may lead to problems from the deformation of the implant.