Three-dimensional finite element model of a human mandible incorporating six osseointegrated implants for stress analysis of mandibular cantilever prostheses.

The three-dimensional finite element stress analysis method was used to determine the distribution of stresses in and around a model of six implants which supported a typical fixed complete-arch prosthesis in a simulated human mandible. A load of 100 N was applied at different intervals along the cantilever segment. There was a decrease of stress that reached a minimal level at 15 mm along the cantilever segment. Thereafter, a progressive increase of stresses in the lingual and buccal plates was demonstrated.