2D and 3D finite element analysis of central incisor generated by computerized tomography

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Dental Biomechanics
• Computational Dentistry

Background:

• Finite element analysis (FEA) is crucial for understanding dental biomechanics.
• Simplifying complex anatomical structures into 2D models is common in FEA for research.
• The accuracy of these simplifications, especially in quantitative stress analysis, requires thorough investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the accuracy of various hierarchical models, including 2D and 3D finite element models, in simulating dental biomechanics.
• To evaluate the reliability of simplified 2D models versus comprehensive 3D models for dental research under occlusal loading.
• To determine the suitability of 2D models for qualitative versus quantitative stress analysis in dentistry.

Main Methods:

• Construction of five finite element models from computed tomography scans: four 2D models (Plane Strain, Plane Stress with linear triangular and quadratic quadrilateral elements) and one 3D model.
• Application of 100 N occlusal loading at a 45° angle to the tooth and its supporting structures in all models.
• Comparative analysis of stress distribution and magnitude across the different model types.

Main Results:

• Qualitative stress distribution patterns were found to be similar across all tested models (2D and 3D).
• Significant differences in stress magnitude were observed between the 2D and 3D models.
• 2D models consistently overestimated the stress magnitudes compared to the 3D model.

Conclusions:

• While 2D finite element models can provide acceptable qualitative biomechanical insights for structures like the upper central incisor, they are less reliable for quantitative stress analysis.
• The overestimation of stress by 2D models and their inability to fully capture complex dental anatomy highlight their limitations.
• Comprehensive 3D finite element analyses are indispensable for accurate and reliable quantitative biomechanical studies in dentistry, as simplifications are not advised.