Application Of The Finite Element Method In Orthodontics

Abstract

Finite Element Analysis (FEA) or Finite Element Method (FEM) is based on the principle of dividing a structure into a finite number of small elements. It is a sophisticated engineering tool, which has been used extensively in design optimization and structural analysis first originated in the aerospace industry to study stress in complex airframe structures. This method is a way of getting a numerical solution to a specific problem, used to analyze stresses and strains in complex mechanical systems. It enables the mathematical conversion and analysis of mechanical properties of a geometric object with wide range of applications in dental and oral health science. It is useful for specifying predominantly the mechanical aspects of biomaterials and human tissues that cannot be measured in vivo. It has various advantages, can be compared with studies on real models, and the tests are repeatable, with accuracy and without ethical concerns. As orthodontics revolve about the forces so FEM is one of the most accurate tools for the researchers in this ground.