Finite Element Analysis of the Influence of Implant Inclination on Stress Distribution in Mandibular Overdentures

The purpose of this finite element study was to evaluate the influence of implant inclination on the stress pattern in the bone surrounding the implants that support mandibular overdentures. The models used in this study were 3-implant-supported mandibular overdentures with a bar-and-clip attachment system. Each model was modified according to the distal implant inclination (0 and 20°). A unilateral vertical load was applied unilaterally to the first molar and first premolar of the overdenture, and the stress distribution in the bone was analyzed. Implant inclination decreased the stress distribution pattern in bone surrounding the implants when the load was applied on the molar site, but when applied at the premolar site, similar stress value changes were not found. Within the limitation of this study, it seems that the inclination of splinted implants in mandibular overdentures does not have any adverse effect on stress distribution pattern values around the implant.