OBJECTIVETo determine the optimal thread pitch for an experimental cylinder implant in Ansys Work-bench Design Xplorer environment.

METHODSFinite element models of segment jaw bone with a V-shaped thread implant were created. The thread pitch (P) was set from 0.5 mm to 1.6 mm. The maximum Equivalent stresses (EQV stresses) in jaw bone and in implant were evaluated.

RESULTSUnder axial load, the amplification of maximum EQV stresses in cortical bone, cancellous bone and implant were 7.1%, 123.4% and 28.7% respectively. Under bucco-lingual load, the amplification of maximum EQV stresses in cortical bone, cancellous bone and implant were 2.8%, 28.8% and 14.9% respectively. When P exceeded 0.8 mm, the response curve curvature of maximum EQV stresses in jaw bone and in implant to P was ranged from -1 to 1.

CONCLUSIONStresses in cancellous bone are more sensitive to thread pitch than in cortical bone. Stresses in jaw bone under axial load are easier affected by thread pitch than under bucco-lingual load. Thread pitch plays a greater role in protecting dental implant under axial load than under bucco-lingual load. Thread pitch exceed 0.8 mm should be the optimal design in a cylinder implant, but oversized pitch should be avoided too.