Application of the finite element method in Dentistry

Abstract

The finite element method (FEM) involves a series of computational procedures to calculate the stress in each element, which performs a model solution. Such a structural analysis allows the determination of stress resulting from external force, pressure, thermal change, and other factors. This method is extremely useful for indicating mechanical aspects of biomaterials and human tissues that can hardly be measured in vivo. The results obtained can then be studied using visualization software within the FEM environment to view a variety of parameters, and to fully identify implications of the analysis. Objective: An overview to show application of FEM in dentistry was undertaken. Literature review: This paper shows the basic concept, advances, advantages, limitations and applications of finite element method (FEM) in dentistry. Conclusion: It is extremely important to verify what the purpose of the study is in order to correctly apply FEM.

Finite Element Study of Stress Distribution with Tooth-Supported Mandibular Overdenture Retained by Ball Attachments or Resilient Telescopic Crowns

“…19 FEA is a useful method for investigation and analysis of complex structures that are difficult to standardize during in vitro and in vivo studies. 18 In this study an accurate method for constructing mucosa FEA model with accurate thickness and morphology was used.…”

“…16 FEA is based on finding a solution to a complex physical problem by dividing a geometric model into a finite number of elements, in which the filed variables can be interpolated with the involvement of specific physical properties and geometric functions. 17,18 FEA consists of three principle steps: preprocessing, processing, and postprocessing.…”

“…• Preprocessing: The objective of this step is the constructing of the "model" that consists of the geometrical construction, meshing, the definition of material properties, and boundary conditions. 18 • Processing or solution: This is the step in which the computer software runs the mathematical solution process. 19 • Postprocessing: The results are presented in this step, then verification and conclusions are made.…”

“…Preprocessing: The objective of this step is the constructing of the “model” that consists of the geometrical construction, meshing, the definition of material properties, and boundary conditions. 18 …”

Effect of 125 Hz and 150 Hz vibrational frequency electric toothbrushes on the rate of orthodontic tooth movement and prostaglandin E2 levels

“…Changes are made to the hemotactic situation before the tooth movement eventually speeds up. 1 Physical trauma (piezopuncture, electric currents, resonant vibration, alveolar corticotomy, lasers, etc.) and pharmacological administration have attempted to accelerate the tooth movement (corticosteroids, vitamin D3, and prostaglandins).…”