Original scientific paper
Finite Element Method Stress Analysis Caused by Orthodontic Forces
Senka Meštrović
Mladen Šlaj
Martina Mikšić
Abstract
The method of finite elements has proved to be successful for analysis of the transmission of forces and stress in biological systems. The aim of this investigation was to determine differences in the distribution of stress and deformation, depending on different levels of application of simple horizontal orally directed forces on the labial surface of the tooth using a mathematical model of the tooth, with equivalent supportive structures, constructed means of the finite element method. An upper canine, extracted for periodontal reasons, was used as a pattern for construction of the model. A three-dimensional model was obtained consisting of 4000 elements in the shape of a hexahedron and 2367 nodes, totalling 7101 grades of freedom. Horizontal orally directed 1 N force, was applied to the model on five different levels of the tooth crown, vertically on its longitudinal axis. Deformation and stress intensity were observed for all the applied forces and equivalent stress calculated, according to the energetic theory of strength (Huber-Mises- Hencky theory).
Keywords
stress; deformation; finite element method
Hrčak ID:
3693
URI
Publication date:
15.6.2002.
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