OBJECTIVE: To investigate the influence of stress on edentulous maxillary bone different artificial anterior tooth arrangements, with the goal to establish theoretical evidence for optimal anterior tooth arrangements in complete denture restoration.MATERIALS AND METHODS: Three-dimensional photoelasticity experimental stress analysis was conducted. Shear stresses were measured and principal stresses were separated into six different models of maxillary central incisor arrangements.RESULTS: The value of maximum stresses and the absolute values of principal stresses and positive stresses were obtained. The distribution curve of shear stresses and principal stresses was also shown.CONCLUSIONS: The horizontal distance between the incisive papilla center and the incisal margin of the maxillary central incisor should be no more than 8 mm, if the anterior mandibular arch is larger than the maxillary arch. The principal stress is a better indicator of stress on edentulous maxillary bone when load is applied at the protrusive occlusal position.
Alveolar Process Birefringence