Stress Analysis of Human Mandible with the Use of Finite Element Method

In this study use of the finite element method in biomechanics, and an explanation of basic steps of preparing a FEM model of a mandible, a discussion of the validity of results is the objective. A computer FEM model of a mandible is prepared from a real human mandible and stress analysis was conducted. For this purpose CT sections of the mandible of a 22 year old male was obtained and the images were scanned and transferred to the computer. In the study the steps of preparing a FEM model of a human skeleton is explained in detail. By using them a 3 D model of the mandible prepared. One of the models is prepared with solid elements; the other is prepared with shell elements. The same loadings were applied to both of them. The results are compared and it is concluded that there is no important differences between them.