[Fluid-solid coupling numerical simulation on ideal porous structure of rat alveolar bone]

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Orthodontics
• Cell Biology

Background:

• Fluid shear stress (FSS) from interstitial fluid flow in trabecular bone stimulates cellular responses.
• Understanding FSS distribution is key to deciphering mechanical force transduction in alveolar bone during tooth development and orthodontic treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the distribution of FSS within alveolar bone under mechanical loading.
• To analyze the effect of orthodontic forces on FSS.
• To explore potential clinical strategies for regulating alveolar bone remodeling via FSS manipulation.

Main Methods:

• Performed orthodontic tooth movement experiments in rats.
• Created a finite element model of the tooth-periodontal ligament-alveolar bone complex using micro-CT images.
• Conducted fluid-solid coupling numerical simulations to predict fluid flow and FSS under dynamic occlusal and orthodontic loading.

Main Results:

• FSS was higher on trabecular surfaces along the occlusal direction compared to perpendicular directions.
• Orthodontic forces exerted minimal influence on the FSS within the alveolar bone.
• The orientation of occlusal loading was identified as a primary determinant of FSS levels.

Conclusions:

• Altering the orientation of occlusal loading, potentially by adjusting occlusal surface shape, can modulate FSS.
• Modulated FSS can activate bone cells, thereby regulating alveolar bone remodeling.
• This suggests a clinical approach to influence bone cell activity and bone remodeling through mechanical loading adjustments.