Micro-CT technology combined with reverse-engineering software in establishing a three-dimensional finite element model of maxillary first premolar
10.3724/SP.J.1008.2011.00745
- Author:
Yi-Bo WEI
1
Author Information
1. Department of Stomatology
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- Keywords:
Finite element analysis;
Micro-computed tomography;
Premolar;
Reverse engineering
- From:
Academic Journal of Second Military Medical University
2011;32(7):745-748
- CountryChina
- Language:Chinese
-
Abstract:
Objective: To explore a simple and effective method for establishing three dimensional finite element model of the maxillary first premolar, so as to provide a mathematic model for future biomechanic research. Methods: Micro-CT was used to scan the extracted, intact left maxillary first premolar and the obtained images were transferred for use. The point data of the enamel, dentin, and pulp were collected by Mimics 10.0 software and were fed into Imageware 12.0 software for treatment with point cloud data and inverse algorithm of curve. After surface fitting, the tooth solid model was accomplished by Ansys 11.0 software. Then the enamel, dentin, and pulp were integrated through Boolean operation using Ansys 11.0. The solid models of periodontium and alveolar bone were constructed and the 3D meshes were created separately; and the models were tested with loading. Results: A fine three-dimensional finite element model of the maxillary first premolar, including the pulp, periodontium and alveolar bone was established. After 3D meshing, the enamel had 26 685 tetrahedral elements, the dentin had 11 082 tetrahedral elements, the pulp had 11 843 tetrahedral elements, the periodontium had 22 004 tetrahedral elements, and the alveolar bone had 66 767 tetrahedral elements. The model had a total of 241 381 10-node-tetrahedral elements; it had a high precision and exactly demonstrated the morphology of the tooth and the curvilinear shape of enamelo-cementel junction. The stress distribution of enamel focused on the middle of occlusal face and enamelocemental junction; the stress distribution of dentin also focused on the enamelo-cemental junction. Conclusion: A three-dimensional finite element model of maxillary first premolar has been established by combining the Micro-CT technology and reverse-engineering software; the model has satisfactory geometric and mechanical comparability.
