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Mandibular forces during simulated tooth clenching
1Department of Oral Science, Minnesota Dental Research Center for Biomaterials and Biomechanics, School of Dentistry, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis 55455.
Journal of Orofacial Pain
|January 1, 1994
Summary
Human mandibular condyles bear loads differently based on clenching tasks. Incisal clenching shifts forces to medial condylar regions, while intercuspal clenching loads lateral areas.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Craniofacial biology
- Dental mechanics
Background:
- Studies suggest differential loading of mandibular condyles.
- Animal experiments and human morphologic studies indicate varying forces.
Purpose of the Study:
- To simulate and describe articular loading of mandibular condyles.
- To analyze simultaneous forces on the dental arch during various clenching tasks.
Main Methods:
- A three-dimensional finite element model of the human mandible was used.
- Simulations included five static bite tasks: intercuspal, left lateral group effort (with and without balancing contact), incisal clenching, and right molar clenching.
Main Results:
- Mandibular condyles are load-bearing structures.
- Greater bilateral forces occurred during intercuspal and incisal clenching.
- Unilateral biting transmitted higher forces through the balancing-side articulation.
- Condylar loading patterns varied with clenching tasks, with specific regional loading differences observed.
- Balancing-side occlusal contact appeared to reduce forces on the balancing condyle.
- Simulated forces confirmed mandibular lever action and suggested complex jaw bending behavior.
Conclusions:
- Condylar loading is task-dependent, influencing force distribution within the temporomandibular joint.
- Finite element modeling provides insights into the biomechanics of jaw function and occlusal forces.