A comparative evaluation of the peri-implant strain transmitted through splinted and non-splinted cement retained prostheses on implants of two different lengths

Abstract

Aim - The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the peri-implant strain transmitted through splinted and non-splinted prostheses cemented on implants of two different lengths (8mm and 11.5mm) when subjected to an axial load. Method – The study was conducted on two polypropylene models on which implants of 8mm and 11.5mm length were placed in the molar region. Splinted and non-splinted prostheses were cemented to the implant abutments placed on the implants. Metal jig simulating the anatomy of the opposing tooth was casted and adapted to the prostheses. An axial load of 400N was applied to the assembly using Universal testing machine. The peri implant strain transmitted through these prostheses was recorded using strain gauges attached to Wheatstone bridge circuit. RESULT – The observations showed that implant length and splinting of the prostheses, both significantly affect the peri implant strain as analysed by one way ANOVA statistical test. [F(3,36) = 1882.81 P<0.05]. Lowest peri implant strain was observed in splinted prosthesis cemented on implant with 11.5mm length followed by non-splinted prosthesis on 11.5mm length implant followed by splinted prosthesis on 8mm length implant followed by non-splinted prosthesis on 8mm length implant.