Strain visualization of supporting tissues rehabilitated using two different types of removable partial dentures

Introduction/Objective. Current biomechanical analyses can provide full view of the strain induced by loading of various replacements to be used for prosthetic rehabilitation. The aim of this study was to analyze strain distribution of supporting tissues beneath two different types of removable partial dentures, commonly indicated in the conventional rehabilitation of partially edentulous patients. Methods. This in vitro study included two groups of experimental models composed of the mandibles (Kenedy Class 1) and two types of removable partial dentures. These models were exposed to occlusal loading and the digital image correlation method was used for strain visualization and strain measurement. Results. The highest strain was measured beneath the removable partial dentures, on the surfaces of bone adjacent to distal abutments and in the anatomical structure called the retromolar area. Strain values in the experimental models with clasp removable partial dentures ranged 0?10%. Strain values in the experimental models with attachment ? removable partial dentures ranged 0?2.3%. Conclusion. The findings showed that the attachment retaining removable partial dentures induced lower strain in the residual alveolar ridges. However, higher strain was detected in the marginal bone next to the abutment teeth. nema