Three-dimensional modeling and finite element analysis of mandible

Abstract

<p>Objective: Analysis of mandibular biomechanics under functional and parafunctional loading to understand the interaction of form and function. Problem statement: The degenerative changes in mandible are believed to result from functional and parafunctional overloading. With millions of people suffering from temporomandibular disorders (TMD), it is a problem that needs to be investigated more fully. Comprehensive biomechanical analysis of mandible is necessary for better diagnosis, treatment, and cure of joint disorders. To the best of our knowledge, no study has so far reported comparative mechanical stress development in the mandible under different functional and parafunctional loading conditions. Methodology: We developed a patient-specific 3D model of mandible (with cortical bone, cancellous bone, teeth, and cartilage) from CT scan using Mimics® software. Finite element analysis (FEA) was performed to investigate comparative mechanical stress development under four loading conditions: balanced occlusion, unbalanced loading, teeth grinding, and clenching. Simulations were performed using bite forces and muscle forces independently. Currently, we are in the process of testing cadaveric mandibles -the results of which will enable us validate the findings of FEA. Data to be included: Mandibular 3D model; visuals of loading and stress maps; tables of material properties, forces, and corresponding stress generation in the condylar cartilage; plot of von Mises stress. Results: The simulations, for bite forces as well as muscle forces, resulted in the least maximum von Mises stresses in the condylar cartilage during balanced loading of the mandible. The maximum von Mises stresses of increasing order were observed for unbalanced loading, teeth grinding, and clenching. Conclusions: Higher stress development during parafunctional loading of the mandible may explain why malocclusion, teeth grinding, and clenching might be the contributing factors for mandibular dysfunction. The results of cadaver testing will provide further insight into this analysis.</p><p>This presentation occurred at the Wright State University Campus-Wide Celebration of Research, Scholarship and Creative Activities on April 16, 2010</p>