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Updated: Jul 20, 2026

Finite Element Analysis Model for Assessing Expansion Patterns from Surgically Assisted Rapid Palatal Expansion
Published on: October 20, 2023
[The construction and analysis of three-dimensional finite element model of human unilateral maxillary defect]
Ling-fei Hong1, Jian Sun, Ting Jiao
1Department of Prosthodontics, College of Stomatology, Ninth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200011, China.
Purpose:
To built a three-dimensional finite element model of the common unilateral maxillary defect, and to study the stress of the traditional maxillofacial prostheses for unilateral maxillary defect.
Methods:
The three-dimensional finite element model of unilateral maxillary defect and maxillofacial obturator prosthesis were constructed by means of spiral CT scanning, digital image transfer, self-developed software MedGraphics, UG engineering design program and ANASYS software. Then 3-D finite element stress analysis was carried out, for the prosthesis.
Results:
The three-finite element models of the unilateral maxillary defect and maxillofacial obturator prosthesis were established. In the traditional obturator prosthesis, the stress was on the posterior teeth of the healthy side; the area of stress concentration was on the palatal base near the position of the anterior teeth.
Conclusions:
The three-dimensional finite element models of the unilateral maxillary defect and maxillofacial obturator prosthesis have good similarity in geometry and biology. The obturator prosthesis is in accorded with the biomechanical demands.

