The comparison of stress distribution with different implant numbers and inclination angles in all-on-four and conventional methods in maxilla: a finite element analysis

All-on-four technique involves the use of tilted implants to allow for shorter cantilevers. This finite element analysis aimed at investigating the amount and distribution of stress in maxillary bone surrounding the implants with all-on-four vs. frequently used method with six implants technique using different numbers and inclination angles. A 3D edentulous maxillary model was created and implants were virtually placed anterior to the maxillary sinus and splinted with a superstructure. In total, five models were designed. In the first to the fourth models, four implants were placed with distal implants inclined 0, 15, 30, and 45 degrees, respectively. In the fifth model, six vertical implants were placed. 100 N loading was placed in the left most distal region of the superstructure. Maximum von Mises stress values were evaluated in cancellous and cortical bone. The maximum stress values recorded in cancellous and cortical bone were 7.15 MPa and 51.69 MPa, respectively (model I). The reduction in stress values in models II to V 6%, 18%, 54%, and 24% in cancellous bone and 12%, 36%, 62%, and 62% in cortical bone, respectively. Increasing the inclination in posterior implants resulted in reduction of cantilever length and maximum stress decline in both cancellous and cortical bone. The effect of cantilever length seems to be a dominant factor which can diminish stress even with less number of implants.