INTRODUCTION: Evaluation of strain developed around implants is playing an important role in the success of osseointegration of implants. Among the factors that affect the strain development, we can include the superstructure material.
OBJECTIVE: The present study used strain gauge to perform an in-vitro evaluation of strain development around dental implants after using two different CAD-CAM reinforced polymers as superstructure materials.
MTERIALS AND METHODS: Sixteen polyurethane test blocks were divided into two groups according to the superstructure material, biocompatible high-performance polymer (BioHPP) and reinforced nano-hybrid polymer with multi-layered glass fiber (TRINIA). Superstructures were fabricated with the same design using computerized aiding design then milling from CAD-CAM blocks. Strain gauges measured microstrain values. A universal testing machine was used to apply static load from 0 to 100 N in axial and 45-degree oblique directions on the superstructure. Then, the microstrain values were measured using a strain meter. Comparisons between the two groups were done using t-test, while comparisons between the buccal and palatal areas around the implant were done using paired t-test. Three-way ANOVA was performed to assess factors affecting strain development around implants (P=.05).
RESULTS: The microstrain developed around TRINIA was significantly lower than BioHPP (p < /p>