MODELING THE MECHANICAL-BEHAVIOR OF THE JAWS AND THEIR RELATED STRUCTURES BY FINITE-ELEMENT (FE) ANALYSIS

In this paper, we provide a review of mechanical finite element analys es applied to the maxillary and/or mandibular bone with their associat ed natural and restored structures. It includes a description of the p rinciples and the relevant variables involved, and their critical appl ication to published finite element models ranging from three-dimensio nal reconstructions of the jaws to detailed investigations on the beha vior of natural and restored teeth, as well as basic materials science . The survey revealed that many outstanding FE approaches related to n atural and restored dental structures had already been done 10-20 year s ago. Several three-dimensional mandibular models are currently avail able, but a more realistic correlation with physiological chewing and biting tasks is needed. Many FE models lack experimentally derived mat erial properties, sensitivity analyses, or validation attempts, and yi eld too much significance to their predictive, quantitative outcome. A combination of direct validation and, most importantly, the complete assessment of methodical changes in all relevant variables involved in the modeled system probably indicates a good FE modeling approach. A numerical method for addressing mechanical problems is a powerful cont emporary research tool. FE analyses can provide precise insight into t he complex mechanical behavior of natural and restored craniofacial st ructures affected by three-dimensional stress fields which are still v ery difficult to assess otherwise.