Design of lattice structures with controlled structural properties for dental prosthesis applications

Design by means of numerical modeling tools of force-displacement relations of cellular structures based on lattice geometry for fitting physiological parameters of human body. (Titolo: Design of lattice structures with controlled structural properties for dental prosthesis applications.) Some of the activities will be conducted at the "École Nationale Supérieure d'Arts et Métiers Laboratoire I2M - Département IMC - Site ENSAM Esplanade des Arts et Métiers 33405 Talence Cédex, FRANCE". ABSTRACT: The present work proposes a numerical design of dental implants based on biomimetic concepts. The use of nature as a mentor for the design is here adopted to obtain artificial implants leading to osteointegration as the natural teeth do. Starting from biological considerations concernig bones behaviour, an optimization technique has been developed. Implant shape and properties design is carried out starting from a natural mandibular canine profile; a Matlab minimization algorithm and a genetic algorithm (BIANCA) have been used in parallel. Lattice cells design is performed so to match the results of the previous shape and properties study; a gradient optimization method has been used on OC (Octhaedral) and RBCC (Reinforced Body Centered Cubic) cells. The implant resultant from the design is characterized by an optimized shape filled with lattice cells able to garantee the stress-strain distribution typical of natural teeth. A complete osteointegration and bone ingrowth is then possible even with artificial dental prothesis.