A three-dimensional computer model of the human mandible in two simulated standard trauma situations.
OBJECTIVE
A three-dimensional finite element model of the human mandible was developed to simulate and analyse biomechanical behaviour in two standard trauma situations. This computer-based study was made to assess the stress patterns within human mandibles generated by impact forces.


METHODS
The mandibular model was generated using 7.073 nodes and 30.119 tetrahedra. A commercial finite element solver was then applied to this mesh to compute stresses generated in standard trauma situations (a blow in the symphysis region and another one to the body of the mandible).


RESULTS
The results indicate that following a blow to the symphysis region, maximum stress areas were located at the symphysis, retromolar and condylar regions. In the case of a blow to the mandibular body, the maximum stress areas were located at the contralateral angle, the ipsilateral body and the ipsilateral condylar neck regions.


CONCLUSIONS
The main application of this study was the prediction of fractures as a consequence of known forces.
Gallas Torreira
Mercedes
M
Department of Comprehensive Adult Dentistry, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, School of Dentistry, University of Santiago de Compostela, Spain. mmgallas@usc.es
Fernandez
José Ramón
JR
D001696:Biomechanical Phenomena; D015519:Bone Density / Q000502:physiology; D003198:Computer Simulation; D003724:Dental Arch / Q000503:physiopathology; D004548:Elasticity; D020342:Finite Element Analysis; D006801:Humans; D021621:Imaging, Three-Dimensional; D008334:Mandible / Q000503:physiopathology; D008335:Mandibular Condyle / Q000503:physiopathology; D008337:Mandibular Fractures / Q000503:physiopathology; D008338:Mandibular Injuries / Q000503:physiopathology*; D008954:Models, Biological; D013314:Stress, Mechanical