Introduction
Numerical Models of Implants
Axial Symmetrical Models
Three Dimensional Models
Three Dimensional Models of a Multi-implant System

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Introduction

A few examples of structural analysis of the implant-bone system through the Finite Element Method are here reported. An evaluation of the interaction phenomena between implants and bone is performed in order to show the capability of the method to investigate the complex biomechanical aspects at the basis of a correct functioning of implant systems.
The study of a single cylindrical implant is proposed through a two-dimensional axial-symmetrical model, taking into account only intrusive forces acting on the implant. Both a smooth implant and a threaded one are taken into consideration. For the smooth implant the influence of the mechanical characteristics of the cortical bone at the implant-bone interface is evaluated. For the threaded implant the influence of both mechanical characteristics and thickness of the cortical bone at the implant-bone interface are evaluated. Results are presented in terms of displacements contours that show how the system, in particular the bone tissue, is deformed under the action of physiological loading.
A three-dimensional model is then used to better represent the geometry of the implant-bone system and to study its mechanical response to more complex loading patterns, taking into account both intrusive and transversal forces. Both smooth and threaded implants are analysed.
In order to present a more complete example of application of the Finite Element Method to implantology the analysis of a multi-implant prosthetic system made of four smooth implants connected by a titanium bar is given. A three-dimensional model of the mandible is obtained through tomographic data. The effects of the application of typical masticatory loads on the prosthetic system are analysed.

In this figure a schematic representation of different regions of bone is reported. In particular the trabecular, cortical and transitional periimplant regions are highlighted. The subdivision of the transitional bone region is a very simplified representation of the different properties that can be assumed by bone tissue during the healing process after implantation. In the analyses reported in the following pages different values of the bone mechanical properties are considered for these different regions.