Abstract
In this study, an experimental system has been developed to evaluate the efficacy of the implant which is implanted at the first molar position to support the mastication force acting on the cantilever type partial denture and to reduce the mechanical loads suffered by the abutment tooth. By using the established system, the effect of direct connection between the dental implant and the partial denture was examined. Results indicated that the tested implant had a certain effect to reduce the mechanical loadings on the abutment. However, the intense lateral loading on the abutment tooth could not be suppressed sufficiently by only one implant at the first molar position, especially when the mastication force was applied on the denture not only vertically but also laterally.
