3D Printing Experimental Validation of the Finite Element Analysis of the Maxillofacial Model

Contacts used in finite element (FE) models were considered as the best simulation for interactions in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). However, the precision of simulations should be validated through experiments. Three-dimensional (3D) printing models with the high geometric and loading similarities of the individuals were used in the validation. This study aimed to validate the FE models of the TMJ using 3D printing models. Five asymptomatic subjects were recruited in this study. 3D models of mandible, disc, and maxilla were reconstructed according to cone-beam CT (CBCT) image data. PLA was chosen for 3D printing models from bottom to top. Five pressure forces corresponding to the central occlusion were applied to the 3D printing models. Ten strain rosettes were distributed on the mandible to record the horizontal and vertical strains. Contact was used in the FE models with the same geometries, material properties, loadings, and boundary conditions as 3D printing models to simulate the interaction of the disc-condyle, disc-temporal bone, and upper-lower dentition. The differences of the simulated and experimental results for each sample were less than 5% (maximum 4.92%) under all five loadings. In conclusion, it was accurate to use contact to simulate the interactions in TMJs and upper-lower dentition.