Finite element analysis of SED and facial morphology

The purpose of this was to construct finite element (FE) models based on computed tomography (CT) data of individual patients during orthodontic treatment and to evaluate the relationship between strain energy density (SED) in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disc and the facial morphology of three skeletal patterns (Class 1-3) by cephalometric analysis.

Cephalometric analyses were performed on 53 patients. FE models based on the CT images of each patient were constructed, and the mean SED in the bilateral TMJ disc was calculated. The relationships between SED and the cephalometric parameters were evaluated.

SED was significantly greater in Classes 1 and 2 than in Class 3 (p < 0.05). Positive correlations were observed between SED and convexity, ANB angle (p < 0.01), and gonial angle in Class 1 (p < 0.05). A negative correlation was observed between SED and facial angle in Class 3 (p < 0.05). Overall, correlations were found between SED and facial angle, convexity, mandibular angle, Y-axis, SNB, ANB angle, and overjet (p < 0.05).

Increased SED in the TMJ disc was associated with clockwise mandibular rotation and superior posterior positioning. Mandibular morphology primarily affected SED, with facial angle, convexity, and ANB being useful predictors of TMJ dysfunction.