Evaluation of Stress and Behaviors of Titanium and Zirconium Dental Implants in Bones with Different Densities: A Finite Element Analysis
Abstract
Statement of problem
Dental implants have become the standard of care in the rehabilitation of edentulous areas. However, their long-term success depends on various factors. Titanium, due to its high biocompatibility and favorable mechanical properties, has long been the material of choice, offering superior aesthetic outcomes and inert biological behavior. Additionally, differences in bone density—classified from D1 to D4—can significantly affect stress distribution patterns around implants.
Purpose
The purpose of the study is to assess the interaction between implant material, bone density, and loading direction to optimize clinical outcomes.
Materials and Methods
In this analytical study, finite element analysis (FEA) was employed to evaluate the biomechanical behavior of titanium and zirconia implants under different bone densities (D1 to D4). Three-dimensional models were subjected to both vertical loading (200 N) and oblique loading (50 N at 45°). The analysis focused on the maximum von Mises stress values in the cortical and cancellous bone, as well as in key implant components, including the abutment, fixture, and abutment screw.
Results
The simulation revealed that oblique loading consistently resulted in significantly higher stress values compared to vertical loading. Stress values in abutments were close under vertical loading (titanium: 40.07 MPa, zirconia: 37.67 MPa). However, oblique loading caused a sharp increase in zirconia (44.36 MPa) compared to titanium (27.64 MPa).In lower-density bone types (D3 and D4), stress concentration was predominantly observed in the crestal bone region. Titanium implants demonstrated more uniform stress distribution and lower peak stresses in the surrounding bone, particularly in low-density conditions. Zirconia implants, on the other hand, showed satisfactory performance in denser bone (D1 and D2), but exhibited increased stress accumulation under oblique loading and in softer bone types.
Conclusion
Titanium implants demonstrated more favorable stress distribution, particularly under oblique loading and in low-density bone (D3—D4). In contrast, zirconia implants performed adequately in denser bone types (D1—D2) with vertical loads. These findings highlight the importance of selecting implant materials based on site-specific biomechanical and esthetic demands to optimize clinical outcomes and long-term stability.
Contributor Notes
The Authors have nothing to disclose.