Distribution of stress on TMJ disc induced by use of chincup therapy: assessment by the finite element method

Abstract

Objective: To assess the distribution of stress produced on TMJ disc by chincup therapy, by means of the finite element method. Methods: a simplified three-dimensional TMJ disc model was developed by using Rhinoceros 3D software, and exported to ANSYS software. A 4.9N load was applied on the inferior surface of the model at inclinations of 30, 40, and 50 degrees to the mandibular plane (GoMe). ANSYS was used to analyze stress distribution on the TMJ disc for the different angulations, by means of finite element method. Results: The results showed that the tensile and compressive stresses concentrations were higher on the inferior surface of the model. More presence of tensile stress was found in the middle-anterior region of the model and its location was not altered in the three directions of load application. There was more presence of compressive stress in the middle and mid-posterior regions, but when a 50o inclined load was applied, concentration in the middle region was prevalent. Tensile and compressive stresses intensities progressively diminished as the load was more vertically applied. Conclusions: stress induced by the chincup therapy is mainly located on the inferior surface of the model. Loads at greater angles to the mandibular plane produced distribution of stresses with lower intensity and a concentration of compressive stresses in the middle region. The simplified three-dimensional model proved useful for assessing the distribution of stresses on the TMJ disc induced by the chincup therapy.

Stress distribution and displacement in the maxillofacial complex during intrusion and distalization of the maxillary arch using miniplates versus mini-implants: a 3-dimensional finite element study

“…Calcada et al determined the stress on TMJ during chincup therapy and determined that only a minimal amount of a stress is distributed over the glenoid fossa which is in correlation to the current study [ 22 ].…”

Effect of the bracketless orthodontics technique and resin composite material on the biomechanical response of the upper central incisor: 3D finite element analysis

“…However, this method is useful to theoretically describe the initial stress distribution of maxillary incisor orthodontic intrusion and that the results could be considered in clinical treatment planning. [13,29] Despite the promising results reported in the present study, FEA has methodological limitations and therefore cannot replace clinical studies. [29,30] FEA is a controlled simulation and is widely used to calculate stress distributions under complex conditions.…”

“…[13,29] Despite the promising results reported in the present study, FEA has methodological limitations and therefore cannot replace clinical studies. [29,30] FEA is a controlled simulation and is widely used to calculate stress distributions under complex conditions. [16,30] Other advantages of this method over other research methodologies are the low laboratory costs, the reduced time to carry out the investigation and provides information which cannot be obtained by in vitro or even clinical studies involving this alternative technique.…”

“…is work is in agreement with a previous study which suggested that comparative computer simulations be used to evaluate complex cases with this methodology. [27][28][29] As in most computer simulations of biological situations, the limitations of the study are mainly related to material parameters. It should be noted that the mechanical properties of biological tissues can vary from individual to individual and from region to region within the same organism.…”