Comparison of the outcomes of three-dimensional finite element analysis under arbitrary and realistic occlusal loading conditions in mandibular posterior region

ABSTRACT

Purpose@#The purpose of this study was to compare the biomechanical outcome in the mandibular posterior region between two different loading conditions by finite element analysis. @*Materials and Methods@#The mandibular posterior teeth model and the implant model were generated for the study. And 2 different types of loading conditions were provided: Arbitrary occlusion and natural occlusion obtained from the digital occlusal analyzer, Accura (Accura, Dmetec Co. Ltd., Seoul, Korea). Total load of 100 N was evenly distributed over arbitrary occlusion points, and 100 N load was differentially distributed over natural occlusion points according to Accura data. The biomechanical outcome was evaluated by the finite element analysis software. @*Results@#The result of finite element analysis showed considerable difference in both von Mises stress pattern and displacement under different loading conditions. @*Conclusion@#In finite element analysis, it is recommended to simulate a realistic occlusal loading pattern that is based on accurate measurement.