Study Of The Stress Distribution In The TMJ During Clenching With The Three-dimensional Finite Element Method

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ), one of the most fine and complicated joints, plays an important role when a person chews, swallows and speaks. The growth, development and reconstruction of the TMJ and the mechanical factors of the temporomandibular diseases are closely related to its mechanical environment. Intercuspal position (ICP) is the mandibular position with the teeth in maximum intercuspation. It is the main functional position of the mandible and also the steadiest position of the TMJ in physiology. The study of the stress distribution of the TMJ during clenching can lead to better understanding of its mechanical characteristics under functional conditions. Meanwhile, it can also provide a new method for exploring the mechanism of the temporomandibular diseases and offer the experimental basis of the treatment measures. Nowadays, the finite element method (FEM) has been the main means for biomechanical study of the TMJ. Due to the limits of study techniques and methods, there were some deficiencies in former models. The intricate structures such as the disc could not be imitated clearly and the spatial positions of the condyle, articular disc and glenoid fossa could not be reflected accurately either, and furthermore, the articulation of dental arches hasn't been established. In this study,...