ASSESSMENT OF DENTAL RESORPTION OF THE SECOND MOLARS ASSOCIATED WITH THIRD MOLAR IMPACTION USING FINITE ELEMENT ANALYSIS

Abstract

Impacted third molars can lead to several symptoms and pathologic conditions; and among them is the root resorption of adjacent second molars. It is well believed that the resorption occurs as consequence of the pressure caused by the impacted third molar. However, there is a lack of scientific evidence to support this theory. Finite element analyses are important tools in dental research in order to simulate forces and investigate their influence on bone tissue, teeth, dental implants, restoration and dental prostheses. Thus, the main purpose of this study is to test the mechanic theory of root resorption of second molars associated with impacted third molars by means of finite element analyses. Three finite element models will be obtained on Mimics® software from CBCT-based DICOM files, presenting three different positions of impacted third molars: horizontal, mesioangular and vertical. There is evidence on the literature that the eruption process is under the influence of functional forces of the stomatognathic system. Therefore, these forces will be simulate using Ansysv14® software in order to investigate the occurrence, localization and distribution of stress and strain forces on the second molars and try to establish a relation between this occurrence and the resorption process.