OSORA

Proof-of-concept simulation of bone remodeling in dental implants: Institute for Medical Technology and Mechatronics at Ulm University of Applied Sciences (THU) uses OSORA simulation software

When placing dental implants in patients with periodontally compromised dentition, the risk of complications, bone loss, and implant failure is increased compared to healthy patients (Sgolastra et al., 2015). In the research project “PhInoDent”, the team led by Prof. Dr.-Ing. Thomas Engleder and Prof. Dr.-Ing. Andreas Häger, Simon Schneider at Ulm University of Applied Sciences (THU) uses OSORA’s simulation technology to generate new, simulation-based insights into these challenges.

The project investigates the influence of mechanical loading on both implant and surrounding bone by means of dynamic simulations of the bone remodeling process. As part of an initial feasibility study, the research group examines whether established bone remodeling models can be transferred and applied to problems in dental implantology.

Problem

  • A current gap in research is that implants are mainly tested mechanically only
  • The remodeling behavior of bone is not sufficiently taken into account

Solution

  • The project uses computer-based simulations to analyze changes in bone structure under varying material properties and microstrain conditions. This enables a more differentiated assessment of implant types and their functional behavior
  • The modular user interface of the OSORA web application is adapted for the feasibility study, and new features for simulation configuration are introduced. This provides the research community with easier access to tissue differentiation simulations and greater transparency regarding verification and validation criteria
Prof. Dr.-Ing. Thomas Engleder (THU), Simon Schneider (THU), Dr. Andreas Arnegger, Prof. Dr.-Ing. Andreas Häger (THU)

Benefit

  • For patients: Safer and more reliable dental treatments and prosthetic solutions
  • For surgeons: Visualization of predictive simulation results to support treatment planning and patient education
  • For implant manufacturers: Improved understanding of tissue differentiation processes, enabling better implant designs and patient-specific solutions. In the long term, healing disorders and infections can also be integrated into the simulation models
Scroll to Top