Periodontal biomechanics: finite element simulations of closing stroke and power stroke in equine cheek teeth

Abstract

BackgroundIn equine dentistry periodontal diseases, especially periapical inflammation, are frequently occurring problems. Anachoresis is believed to be the most common cause for the development of such disorders. Nevertheless, there is still no substantiated explanation why settlement of pathogen microorganisms occurs in equine periodontal tissues. It is expected that excessive strains and stresses occurring in the periodontal ligament (PDL) during the horse’s chewing cycle might be a predisposing factor. In this study this assumption was examined by finite element (FE) analyses on virtual 3-D models of equine maxillary and mandibular cheek teeth, established on the basis of μCT datasets. Calculations were conducted both under conditions of closing and power stroke.ResultsResults showed a uniform distribution of low stresses and strain energy density (SED) during closing stroke, whereas during power stroke an occurrence of high stresses and SED could be observed in the PDL near the alveolar crest and in periapical regions.ConclusionThe concentration of forces during power stroke in these specific areas of the PDL may cause local tissue necrosis and inflammation and thus establish a suitable environment for the settlement of microorganisms.

Equine dental and periodontal anatomy: A tutorial review

“…; Cordes et al . ). In young teeth, with a long reserve crown (large intra‐alveolar surface), the collagen fibres are relative loosely arranged ( Fig ).…”

Equine odontoclastic tooth resorption and hypercementosis affecting all cheek teeth in two horses: Clinical and histopathological findings

“…First, it is assumed that gingival damage occurs, leading to periodontal pocketing and microbial infection of the periodontal ligament (Cordes et al . ). Second, focal overload within the depth of the alveolus causes periodontal micronecrosis and initiates cytokine release.…”

Is your practice diagnosing cheek teeth diastemata?

“…Finite element simulations of the equine masticatory cycle have shown that the mechanical load within the periodontal ligament markedly increases with decreasing tooth length or increased age (Cordes et al . ).…”

“…mastication, the horse chews at a rate of 8-10 chewing cycles per 10 s. Each cycle can place a masticatory force of 800-1000 Newtons on a premolar tooth and an even greater force on the caudal cheek teeth (Staszyk et al 2006a). Finite element simulations of the equine masticatory cycle have shown that the mechanical load within the periodontal ligament markedly increases with decreasing tooth length or increased age (Cordes et al 2012). Impacted food material is highly contaminated with potentially pathogenic micro-organisms, which have been shown to spread to the bloodstream and may also be aerosolised during the cleaning process in dogs and man (Rawlinson et al 2011).…”