Comparison of strength and failure mode of seven implant systems: an in vitro test.
STATEMENT OF PROBLEM: The mechanical weakness of implant systems is a problem in the clinical situation. PURPOSE: This study experimentally evaluated how joint design influences the strength and failure mode of dental implant systems. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The strength tests focused on the systems as a whole. Seven implant systems with different joint design were evaluated. RESULTS: Strength and failure mode varied significantly between the implant systems and deep joints, in contrast to shallow joints, favored resistance to bending moments. The mean failure force ranged between 138 to 693 Newtons for the various implant systems. CONCLUSION: In construction of implant systems, joint depth should be taken into consideration.