Occlusal stress distribution in the human skull with permanent maxillary first molar extraction: A 3-dimensional finite element study

Introduction

The objective of this research was to analyze the effect of orthodontic treatment with maxillary permanent first molar extraction on the occlusal stress distribution and displacement in the human skull.

Methods

A 3-dimensional finite element model was constructed on the basis of a computed tomography scan, and it was used as the pretreatment model. The software used for geometric modeling was Solid Works (Dassault Systèmes, Paris, France). For the extraction model, the maxillary permanent first molar was removed, followed by a repositioning of the anterior and posterior segments to create a space closure model. Stress distribution was evaluated under the simulation of 1000 N for occlusal forces and 400 N for masseter muscle force.

Results

The highest von Mises stress was observed at the zygomatic process of the temporal bone across all 3 models (25 MPa), whereas stress at the pterygomaxillary suture area was almost 50% less. However, the stress in the pterygomaxillary suture area was lowest in the extraction model (18%) and space closure (30%). Stress in the zygomatic process of the frontal bone and frontal process of the maxilla increased from pretreatment to extraction model followed by space closure model.

Conclusions

The occlusal forces were transferred through maxillonasal, maxillozygomatic, and maxillopterygoid stress trajectories. The mesial displacement of the molars may weaken the role of maxillopterygoid stress trajectory while strengthening the role of maxillonasal stress trajectory.