ABSTRACT
<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To analyze the stress distribution of bone around the implant on vertical loads.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>Four linear strain gauges were placed in strategic locations. The vertical loads were applied at different points. The result of the stress was recorded at each gauge.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>The load, the location of load and their interactions indicated statistically significant difference in the distribution of stress. For the single-implant-supported fixed prosthesis the greater stress values were showed at the strain gauges positioned in the implant's cervical and apical area near to loading points. For the two-implant-supported fixed bridge the greater stress values were showed at the stress gauges positioned in the two implants cervical and apical area near to loading points, especially at the implant near to loading points. As loads were applied at the cantilevered points, the magnitude of stress was directly proportional to the magnitude of load and the cantilevered length.</p><p><b>CONCLUSIONS</b>For the design of the implant-supported prosthesis the relief of load and the avoidance of cantilevered prosthesis should be considered to reduce the stress of the bone around the implant.</p>