Computer and model methods for the biomechanical analyses of mandibular bone and prosthodontic devices

This dissertation is a collection of five manuscripts which have been submitted individually to three refereed technical journals. Each of these papers represent a finite element modeling project dealing with a variety of problems related to the biomechanical analysis of the calcified tissue of the mandible and of selected prosthodontic devices.; The first paper of this dissertation demonstrates a methodology for a model of a human mandible. It included a methodology for the acquisition of biomechanical data associated with the maxillofacial complex and created a test mechanism for the use of computed tomography as a tool for bone model development. The model could serve as a basis for multiple studies employing the inherent power of the finite element method.; The three papers on intraoral bridge analyses provided a series of studies of overdenture bars which clinically exhibit specific mechanical failure trends. These analyses investigated the scientific rationale for the observations made by the clinical community so that recommendations on design might be made to minimize clinical failures in the future. The results of these studies can be incorporated into a restored mandibular model that includes intraoral restorations in future studies. In having a thorough understanding of the biomechanical behavior of these devices prior to their introduction in a significantly more complex study, some of the experimental variables might be reduced.; The final paper in this dissertation is specific to the technical methods for a progression of finite element research capabilities using computed tomography. The combined use of computer automation of data acquisition from the CT information greatly expedited model development. Using the computer to acquire data directly from the computed tomography images decreased direct investigator interactions and, therefore, some inaccuracies. Automated digitization of CT images decreased the approximations made when digitization was done manually.; The studies presented in this dissertation, in concert with the results of previous investigators, qualify and quantify the mechanical stress and strain environment in mandiblar bone and prosthodontic devices affixed to the bony structures. In addition, significant techniques useful to the creation of analytical (finite element) models have emerged from these studies.