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Three-dimensional Finite Element Analysis of the Cartilaginous Structures in the Human Temporomandibular Joint

Department of Functional Anatomy, Academic Center for Dentistry Amsterdam (ACTA), Meibergdreef 15, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, the Netherlands

J.H. Koolstra

Department of Functional Anatomy, Academic Center for Dentistry Amsterdam (ACTA), Meibergdreef 15, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, the Netherlands

L.J. Van Ruijven

Department of Functional Anatomy, Academic Center for Dentistry Amsterdam (ACTA), Meibergdreef 15, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, the Netherlands

T.M.G.J. Van Eijden

Department of Functional Anatomy, Academic Center for Dentistry Amsterdam (ACTA), Meibergdreef 15, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, the Netherlands

While the movability of the human temporomandibular joint is great, the strains and stresses in the cartilaginous structures might largely depend on the position of the mandible with respect to the skull. This hypothesis was investigated by means of static three-dimensional finite element simulations involving different habitual condylar positions. Furthermore, the influence of several model parameters was examined by sensitivity analyses. The results indicated that the disc moved together with the condyle in the anterior direction without the presence of ligaments and the lateral pterygoid muscle. By adapting its shape to the changing geometry of the articular surfaces, the disc prevented small contact areas and thus local peak loading. In a jaw-closed configuration, the influence of 30° variations of the loading direction was negligible. The load distribution capability of the disc appeared to be proportional to its elasticity and was enhanced by the fibrocartilage layers on the articular surfaces.

Key Words: temporomandibular joint • finite element method • mechanics

Journal of Dental Research, Vol. 80, No. 10, 1913-1918 (2001)
DOI: 10.1177/00220345010800101001


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