Effect of Restorative Configurations and Occlusal Schemes on Strain Levels in Bone Surrounding Implants

Aim: This study investigated strain levels during and after implant insertion, and during and after simulated mastication, in splinted and nonsplinted restorations with different occlusal schemes. Materials and Methods: Fresh bovine bone resembling type I jawbone was collected. Strain gauges were placed at each implant's neck, one horizontally and one vertically. Strains at and after implant insertion were recorded. The restoration was loaded with cyclic load simulating mastication. Loading and residual strains were recorded for 6 experimental loading types. Results: At and after implant insertion, high horizontal strains were measured. Full splint loading presented higher vertical compared with horizontal strains (P < 0.05). Segmented cross-arch splint showed higher horizontal strains (P < 0.05). Premolar loading guidance presented the most favorable loading and residual strain results (P < 0.05). Conclusions: Splinting implant restorations may reduce strain levels at implant neck area and provide preferable strain distribution during cyclic loading.