The construction and analysis of three-dimensional finite element model of human unilateral maxillary defect

Objective: To built a three-dimensional finite element model of the common unilateral maxillary defect, and to study the stress of the traditional maxillofacial prostheses for unilateral maxillary defect.

Methods: The three-dimensional finite element model of unilateral maxillary defect and maxillofacial obturator prosthesis were constructed by means of spiral CT scanning, digital image transfer, self-developed software MedGraphics, UG engineering design program and ANASYS software. Then 3-D finite element stress analysis was carried out, for the prosthesis.

Results: The three-finite element models of the unilateral maxillary defect and maxillofacial obturator prosthesis were established. In the traditional obturator prosthesis, the stress was on the posterior teeth of the healthy side; the area of stress concentration was on the palatal base near the position of the anterior teeth.

Conclusions: The three-dimensional finite element models of the unilateral maxillary defect and maxillofacial obturator prosthesis have good similarity in geometry and biology. The obturator prosthesis is in accorded with the biomechanical demands.