Shape optimization and tolerance analysis of dental implants by means of virtual models

Osseointegrated implants are commonly used to support the partial or full structure for dental replacement. Many practical techniques use a dental impression to extract information about the positioning of implants in order to improve the precision of fitting. Due to different expertise, geometrical misalignments and interference defects, some permanent deformations and misfits may occur during components mounting and dismounting activities. These errors cannot be completely avoided, but an accurate choice of the geometrical parameters, materials and procedures may reduce the risk of system failure, local damages or harmful behaviour for the patient. For this purpose computer aided design modelling and finite element analysis can be valid instruments to build virtual simulation, have objective assessment of mechanical behaviour, perform tolerance allocation and optimize shapes. In this paper some case studies integrating CAD and FEM for implant biomechanical evaluation and shape optimization are discussed and innovative solutions have been presented.