Simulation of Stress Distribution on the Upper First Molar and Alveolar Bone with the Transpalatal Arch and Upper Second Molar Using Finite Element Analysis

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the differences in the stress distribution on the upper first molar with and without transpalatal arch and a second molar when a 150 g force is applied during canine distalization using finite element analysis. Material and Methods: We constructed several models with data obtained by scanning human skulls using cone beam computed tomography. A robust three-dimensional maxillary model was then constructed by assembling the previously completed robust models of the maxilla and second molar with and without transpalatal arch, and canine distalization was simulated using a 150 g force. The data consisted of color spectrum figures representing the stress distribution. Results: For the upper first molar and its alveolar bone, there was a statistically significant difference in the stress distribution between the upper first molar with transpalatal arch , the upper first molar without transpalatal arch , and the upper first molar with transpalatal arch and a second molar as reinforcement. Conclusion: Stress distribution on the first molar and alveolar bone, indicated by the maximum and minimum principal stress, as well as the pressure von Mises, exhibited a similar pattern. The highest amount of stress was observed in the model of the first molar without transpalatal arch, followed by the model of the first molar with transpalatal archand, finally, the model of the first molar with transpalatal archand a second molar.