Finite Element Analysis and Computational Modeling in Orthodontics and Periodontal Biomechanics

Dear Colleagues,

The new advances in computer modeling in orthodontic and periodontal biomechanics have become more and more accurate in recent years. The development of the latest Artificial Intelligence (AI) models also contributed to this progress. The Finite Element Analysis (FEA) allows for unlimited possibilities in changing simulation conditions, enabling advanced medical research even with a small number of 3D models. Moreover, due to the limited data regarding the biomechanical changes affecting periodontal breakdown during orthodontic movement, new simulations are required, as periodontal disease is relatively common in dental patients. However, in order to obtain accurate results, the FEA methodological requirements must be closely followed: accurate 3D models, failure criteria properly selected based on the type of investigated material (ductile or brittle), as well as a discussion on boundary conditions selection. To achieve accurate results and predictability, as in the engineering field, all the above-mentioned points must be closely followed. There is a rich body of dental FEA research in the current scientific literature. Still, unfortunately, its accuracy is limited and questionable, mainly due to the misuse of FEA methodology requirements. Accurate dental tissues 3D models (having an extremely high number of elements and nodes and extremely small general element size) imply CBCT scans with a low voxel size to be able to reconstruct small tissues like dental pulp and neuro-vascular bundle. Any other type of 3D models (e.g., based on idealized anatomy, with a reduced number of elements and nodes) is inaccurate and obsolete. The dental tissues are ductile materials, so the employed failure criteria must be selected accordingly. If the selected failure criteria are for brittleness or hydrostatic pressure, the choice should be properly motivated. The boundary conditions (isotropy-anisotropy, linear-elasticity/non-linear elasticity, amount of applied force) should also be properly discussed.

The medical and clinical practical benefit of Finite Element modeling is related to the fact that it enables to simulate various treatment plans, gain additional data regarding the biomechanical behavior of the involved tissues and anticipate the potential problems and outcomes. By changing the simulation parameters, this type of clinical simulation can provide clinical solutions to individualize the treatment plan in orthodontics, periodontics, endodontics, prosthetics and oral implantology. Moreover, additional data gained from clinical cases can be valuable for medical knowledge, but only by correctly employing the computational methods requirements mentioned above.

Dr. Radu Andrei Moga
Dr. Cristian Doru Olteanu
Dr. Ada Delean
Guest Editors

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• periodontitis
• periodontal breakdown
• orthodontic treatments
• orthodontic forces
• bone loss
• periodontal ligament
• finite elements analysis
• numerical methods
• boundary conditions
• failure criteria
• anatomical accuracy