Application of Computational Methods in Dentistry

Stomathognatic system with its anatomy and function represents a very complex mechanism. In order to simulate its basic function, it is necessary to have a very precise and accurate model which assumes development of model with accurate geometry, material prosperities, and occlusal loads that acts on it. Furthermore, in dentistry, a huge part of research is focused on artificial materials. Some of them are used to replace destroyed part of a tooth – for example dental filings, crowns, and dental posts, others are replacements of the whole tooth or teeth – dental implants, and fixed or removable prosthesis. All artificial materials that are mentioned above are required to function in oral environment and are subjected to mechanical occlusal forces (derived by muscles during biting). Thus, research related to the quality and survival of these materials, but also living tissues functioning together with these materials, must consider their biomechanical behavior.Among various computational methods, finite element method (FEM) has become widely accepted and very often used in dental research. The number of published articles that has been using FEM as a research tool in dentistry has significantly increased during the last decade.In the following chapter, the following will be discussed: The advantages of using FEM in research related to dentistry The basic parts of a stomathognatic system that need to be model for finite element analysis Development of the use of FEM in dental research Application of the FEM in major dental topics Examples of using the FEM in dental research