Evaluation of stability of Short Hybrid Implant Impression Copings: A Finite Element Analysis

Abstract

Objectives. This study evaluates the stability of various short hybrid impression copings with pick-up plastic components compared to conventional impression copings. Materials and Methods. Three-dimensional (3D) models were created using three different impression coping types (transfer, short hybrid [SH] with cap, and SH without cap) in two diameters (4.00 mm and 5.00 mm). An external horizontal load was applied to the apex of the analog to simulate unintentional forces under diverse conditions. Von Mises stress, microstrain, and displacement values were calculated to assess the stability of each group. Each group underwent a single simulation, and a Tukey post hoc test was conducted for statistical analysis. Results. The finite element analysis (FEA) results demonstrated that SH copings with a pick-up component showed significantly lower stress and deformation in the PVS material under unintended force application. Significant differences were observed among all groups (p < 0.01). Conclusions. Short hybrid implant copings with a pick-up cap provide reliable impression accuracy comparable to conventional transfer copings, with consistent reproducibility. Clinical Relevance Achieving precision and stability in dental implant impression techniques is essential for the accurate replication of intraoral conditions. Modifications to impression coping caps by some implant manufacturers have been introduced to enhance the ease of transfer and repositioning in clinical practice. In this study, the stability of impression copings with pick-up plastic components is evaluated using finite element analysis, providing insights into their clinical effectiveness.