CONCLUSIONS
Within the limitations of this in vitro FEM analysis of
3 methods of implant support for a mandibular molar crown, the following conclusions were drawn:
1. Increasing the diameter of the implant from 3.75 mm to 5 mm reduced mesiodistal and buccolingual dis- placement of the implant/crown complex by approxi- mately 50% when the crown was loaded at the distobuccal cusp tip or the distal marginal ridge.
2. The greatest reduction in mesiodistal displace- ment occurred with the 2-implant design.
3. The 2-implant design showed a similar reduction in buccolingual displacement when compared with the crown supported by a 5-mm implant.
The authors offer special thanks to their wives, Maryam and
Kathy, for continuous support of their scholarly efforts.