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Computational simulation of pacifier deformation and interaction with the palate
Christopher L Lee1, Michael Costello1, David A Tesini2,3
1Olin College of Engineering, Needham, Massachusetts, USA.
Clinical and Experimental Dental Research
|April 6, 2021
Summary
Computational models accurately simulate pacifier, palate, and tongue interactions during nonnutritive sucking (NNS). This research quantifies forces and deformations, aiding studies on infant development.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Computational modeling
- Pediatric dentistry
Background:
- Nonnutritive sucking (NNS) is crucial for infant development.
- Pacifier use may influence dental and facial growth.
- Understanding the mechanics of NNS is essential.
Purpose of the Study:
- To validate computational finite element models for simulating NNS dynamics.
- To quantify the mechanical interactions between pacifiers, palates, and tongues.
- To provide data for analyzing pacifier effects on development.
Main Methods:
- Developed a finite element model of an infant pacifier and palate.
- Utilized hyperelastic material properties for the pacifier bulb.
- Applied time-varying pressure loads simulating tongue interaction and NNS.
Main Results:
- Simulated pacifier bulb deformation and elastic strain.
- Calculated stress distribution on the palate (0.60 MPa tensile to -0.27 MPa compressive).
- Visualized contact areas between the pacifier and palate.
Conclusions:
- Nonlinear transient dynamic finite element models reliably simulate NNS mechanical behavior.
- Quantitative results predict deformation, strain, stress, and contact.
- Findings can inform studies on pacifier impact on dental, orthognathic, and facial development.
