Stress distribution in the dento-alveolar system using digital photoelasticity

Past research has confirmed that the governing factors in cellular modellin g and remodelling adhere to sound principles of engineering mechanics. Henc e studies of stress distributions would provide better understanding of the functional adaptation of dental supporting structures. Photoelasticity is an established experimental tool to study whole-field stress distribution i n structures subjected to forces. However, it has certain limitations that make its application in biological specimens tedious. In this investigation an advanced digital photoelastic system is used to visualize and study the nature of the stress distribution in dental supporting structures. These d igital fringe patterns are analysed using a phase-shift technique. The pres ent biomechanical study shows that dental supporting structures exhibit a c haracteristic stress distribution, promoting structural adaptation based on needs. Furthermore, the advantage of using a digital image processing syst em along with the circular polariscope is discussed.