Strukturmechanische Beanspruchungsanalysen dentaler Restaurationen unter Anwendung der Finite-Elemente-Methode

Abstract

Statement of problem: The development of Finite-Element-Analysis (FEA) in dentistry has progressed rapidly since the 1970s. Nevertheless, results from this application are not used in everyday clinical practice. The effort to create an FEA is high and the validation process difficult. Much time and money must be invested in order to get adequate results. Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate the static-structural behavior of numerical simulations in dentistry. Moreover, a deduction of the results was performed to carry out an in-silico-validation. Materials and methods: A total of four simulation models were created based on CT and μCT data as well as on an intraoral scan. To perform a simulation, the data sets were segmented and edited in 3D software. Subsequently, the surface deviations were examined to estimate their influence on the calculated results. The boundary conditions for the numerical simulation were taken from literature or are based on own investigations. To be able to simulate different variants, a parameter set in Microsoft Excel was programmed. Results: The model “Fully Toothed Dentition“ is very well suited for the qualitative and quantitative assessment of periodontal diseases. Own in-silico-validations with the models “Jaw Segment“ and “Extracted Tooth“ support this statement. The evaluation of the stresses and strains on the occlusal surfaces is of particular importance for prosthetic procedures. In this respect, the examined models show weaknesses. Qualitative statements could be determined by evaluating the stress and pressure curves. These are mandatory for adjustments of the tooth surfaces, but are not currently found in everyday clinical practice. In order to be able to make quantitative statements, further investigations are necessary in terms of the quality of meshing and the definition of the contact. Conclusion: To make economically feasible use of these calculations for prevention, control and post-treatment, further investigations with statistical evaluation are necessary. In the near future, results will be available in real time for an initially limited examination area and will represent new standards in medical imaging.