title: Finite element tension analysis of the supporting tissues of a maxillary canine.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  The distribution of masticatory load on the teeth and the arising force tensions in them are factors that determine the origine of destructive processes in their periodontium. The development of mathematical models and application of new computer technologies make possible their precise study. They are still not thoroughly studied.
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  To study the tensions, originating in the periodontium of a canine tooth during occlusal load by the modern method of finite elements (MFE).
  
  
  METHODS
  A three-dimensional model of a maxillary canine is built by MFE containing 304 finite elements with six varieties of geometrical form, linked in 1409 nodes. It is supposed that the tooth is fixed firmly to the outer surface of the periodontal membrane to the alveolar bone and is loaded in the lingual wall by a force perpendicular to its longitudinal axis and directed from the lingual to the vestibular wall.
  
  
  RESULTS
  As a result of the calculations according to MFE the tension state of dental tissues is calculated for diferent degrees of destruction of the alveolar bone. It was established that with the increase of destruction of the alveolar bone for one and the same masticatory load, the tensions in the periodontal membrane also increase. The maximal tensions act in the apex of the root and around the clinical neck of the teeth.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The results obtained provide precise information of distribution of force tensions in the periodontium of maxillary canines during occlusal load. They serve as a serious theoretical base for future investigations.
authors.affiliation: Department of Prosthetic Dentistry, Faculty of Dentistry, Higher Medical Institute, Plovdiv, Bulgaria.
authors.forename: Y S
authors.initials: YS
authors.lastname: Kalachev
authors.forename: R D
authors.initials: RD
authors.lastname: Ralev
authors.forename: P I
authors.initials: PI
authors.lastname: Iordanov
mesh_terms: D003481:Cuspid / Q000033:anatomy & histology*; D006801:Humans; D008409:Mastication / Q000502:physiology; D008437:Maxilla; D008954:Models, Biological; D010519:Periodontium / Q000033:anatomy & histology; D013314:Stress, Mechanical