Biomechanical Response of Mandible Relating to Loading Condition. Part 1. Validation between Finite Element Analysis and Experimental Model.

Abstract

The stress distribution underneath denture base and the resorption of alveolar bone are closely related to each other. In our recent studies with three-dimensional and two-dimensional finite element methods (2-D and 3-D FEM), the stress distribution was evaluated for removable dentures and their supporting structures. The purpose of this study was to validate the 3-D FEM and 2-D FEM models with experimental model as well as to compare the 3-D analysis with 2-D analysis. According to our results, the stress distribution of 3-D FEM was similar to the results of the experimental model. 2-D FEM tended to show exaggerated results compared with those 3-D FEM.