Biomechanical analysis on platform switching: is there any biomechanical rationale?
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this study was to examine the biomechanical advantages of platform switching using three-dimensional (3D) finite element models.


METHODS
3D finite element models simulating an external hex implant (4 x 15 mm) and the surrounding bone were constructed. One model was the simulation of a 4 mm diameter abutment connection and the other was the simulation of a narrower 3.25 mm diameter abutment connection, assuming a platform-switching configuration.


RESULTS
The stress level in the cervical bone area at the implant was greatly reduced when the narrow diameter abutment was connected compared with the regular-sized one.


CONCLUSIONS
Within the limitations of this study, it was suggested that the platform switching configuration has the biomechanical advantage of shifting the stress concentration area away from the cervical bone-implant interface. It also has the disadvantage of increasing stress in the abutment or abutment screw.
Maeda
Yoshinobu
Y
Division for Interdisciplinary Dentistry, Osaka University Faculty of Dentistry, Osaka, Japan. ymaeda@dent.osaka-u.ac.jp
Miura
Jiro
J
Taki
Ikuro
I
Sogo
Motofumi
M
D001696:Biomechanical Phenomena; D001842:Bone and Bones / Q000502:physiology; D003198:Computer Simulation; D000044:Dental Abutments; D015921:Dental Implants; D017267:Dental Prosthesis Design; D020342:Finite Element Analysis; D006801:Humans; D021621:Imaging, Three-Dimensional / Q000379:methods*; D008422:Materials Testing; D008954:Models, Biological; D017711:Nonlinear Dynamics; D016348:Osseointegration / Q000502:physiology; D013314:Stress, Mechanical; D013499:Surface Properties
D015921:Dental Implants