Effect of occlusal materials on extension distribution in implant-supported fixed prostheses: a 3D computational analysis.

• Grant number: 25/17100-5
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: October 01, 2025
• End date: September 30, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Dentistry - Dental Materials
• Principal Investigator: Joel Ferreira Santiago Junior
• Grantee: Giovana Souza Rodrigues
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Odontologia de Ribeirão Preto (FORP). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). Ribeirão Preto , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Occlusal veneering materials have evolved significantly in recent decades and remain the focus of research due to their impact on prosthetic design and long-term implant success. Among these, metal-ceramic materials are considered the gold standard because of their high survival rates, while zirconia offers satisfactory marginal fit and enables CAD/CAM fabrication. Recently, more esthetic options have been discussed in the literature, including glass nanoparticle-modified resins, which have a modulus of elasticity similar to dentin and high strength. However, there is a gap in the literature regarding stress distribution when using different occlusal veneers in situations with high biomechanical demands. The objective of this study is to perform computational simulations and evaluate stress distribution using the finite element method. The study groups will simulate an implant-supported cantilever prosthesis with different occlusal materials. Loading will be applied in both axial (0°) and oblique (45°) directions. The results will be assessed using von Mises stress maps and principal stress analyses. Quantitative analysis will be conducted with a significance level of ¿ = 0.05. This project aims to assess the feasibility of using new occlusal veneering materials in areas of high biomechanical demand.