PhD Biomechanical analysis of ceramic dental implants: numerical and experimental simulation

Ceramic dental implants were proposed as an alternative to the “gold standard” CpTi and Ti alloys due to their improved aesthetics and biocompatibility. Polycrystalline zirconia is an inert material with low level of bacterial biofilm formation, good soft tissue integration, and absence of mucosal discolorations. Reliable osseointegration process for zirconia implants is related to the surface characteristics. Yet, despite its good mechanical properties, zirconia is brittle and susceptible to low temperature degradation. Therefore, producing zirconia implants with complex geometries and micro-rough surfaces without compromising its structural stability is a great challenge. Moreover, for two-pieces implants, different types of connections/abutments were proposed, including zirconia, titanium, and composites. The combination of materials with different elastic and mechanical properties could affect the stress distribution in the bone/implant/prothesis system. Lack of stability of the implant components can lead to screw loosening and abutment/restoration fractures. The osseointegration process and the marginal bone stability could also be impaired by a non-uniform stress distribution.

This study aims to characterize the biomechanical behaviour of ceramic dental implants in order to optimize their design and surface treatments, which could lead to more reliable clinical treatments. The project will be performed in collaboration with the research group of the Department of Biomedical Materials Science at the University of Mississippi Medical Centre (UMMC, Jackson, MS, EUA). 

How to Apply

For information on how to apply for this project, please visit the Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health Doctoral Academy website (https://www.bmh.manchester.ac.uk/study/research/apply/). Informal enquiries may be made directly to the primary supervisor. On the online application form select the PhD Dentistry.

For international students, we offer the opportunity for you to undertake an accredited teaching certificate whilst carrying out your research with our PhD with Integrated Teaching Certificate. We also offer self-funded international students the chance to study a master’s before progressing onto a PhD with our Integrated PhD. Visit our international postgraduate researchers page to find out more.

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