Bridging safer dental implants
Griffith University PhD graduate Dr Rudi van Staden applied engineering technology in dentistry to reduce the risk of damage to the jawbone or nerves when attaching imitation teeth.
His research investigated the “stress” within the human jawbone when surgically implanting a titanium screw, used to attach imitation teeth.
He said dental implants were becoming more and more popular as they provided an enhanced function when compared to dental bridges or crowns. “However, there is a five per cent failure rate that is believed to be associated with incorrect insertion techniques and a lack of understanding of the complex stress characteristics within the jawbone.”
With the help of computer modelling software used for bridges, buildings and big structures, he examined the “stress” within the jawbone induced by a titanium screw during and after insertion. “Using medical imaging methods, I created a three-dimensional computer model of the human jawbone and implant and simulated the dynamic implantation process. There are 560 different jawbone material properties and screw dimensions, and this research can help dentists find the best fit for their patient.”