Bone Remodeling Response During Mastication on Free-End Removable Prosthesis – a 3D Finite Element Analysis

An understanding of functional responses in oral bone is a crucial component of dental biomechanics. The purpose of this study was to investigate the use of an osseointegrated implant as support for a free-end removable partial denture (RPD) on the potential biological remodelling response during mastication. A three-dimensional (3D) finite element analysis (FEA) was performed to determine the biomechanical responses to masticatory loading in the posterior mandible. Stresses and strains were analysed at lingual/buccal and mesial/distal areas of the premolar to molar region to anticipate bone remodeling response. Mandibular bone incorporating an implant-supported RPD experienced substantially greater stress/ strain magnitudes than that prior to placement of implant, which is suggestive of engagements of bone remodelling. The results suggest similar outcomes to those reported clinically. Developing a simulation reflecting the outcomes of restorative treatment can provide meaningful insight into restorative treatment planning, clinical outcomes, and removable prosthodontics designs.