title: A three-dimension finite element analysis to evaluate the stress distribution in tooth supported 5-unit intermediate abutment prosthesis with rigid and nonrigid connector.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  The aim of the study is to evaluate the stress distribution in tooth supported 5-unit fixed partial denture (FPD) having tooth as pier abutment using rigid and nonrigid connectors respectively, under simultaneous and progressive loading.
  
  
  METHODS
  The three-dimensional (3D) finite element program (ANSYS software) was used to construct the mathematical model. Two 5-unit FPD'S were simulated, one with rigid connector and another one with nonrigid connector. For analysis, each of these models were subjected to axial and oblique forces under progressive loading (180, 180, 120, 120, 80 N force on first and second molars, premolars and canine respectively) and simultaneous loading (100, 100, 100, 100, 100 N force on first and second molars, premolars and canine respectively).
  
  
  RESULTS
  The rigid and nonrigid connector design have effect on stress distribution in 5-unit FPDs with pier abutments.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Oblique forces produce more stresses than vertical forces. Nonrigid connector resulted in decrease in stress at the level of prosthesis and increase in stress at the level of alveolar crest.
authors.affiliation: Department of Prosthodontics, Eclavya Dental College and Hospital, Kotputli, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India.
authors.forename: Ritesh
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Modi
authors.affiliation: Department of Prosthodontics, MAHSA University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
authors.forename: Shivani
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Kohli
authors.affiliation: Department of Prosthodontics, KLE Society's Institute of Dental Sciences, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India.
authors.forename: K
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Rajeshwari
authors.affiliation: Division of Restorative Dentistry, School of Dentistry, International Medical University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
authors.forename: Shekhar
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Bhatia
keywords: Connectors; finite element analysis; pier abutment; stress distribution; tooth supported