Effect of a mouthguard on stress distribution in teeth, maxilla and mandible for maxilla and mandibular impact using finite element analysis

Park, Ji Hye; Lee, Sung Bok; Kwon, Kung Rock; Choi, Dae Gyun

Abstract

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM: The use of mouthguard is important as the leisure life is popular today. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of a mouthguard on stress distribution in teeth, maxilla and mandible for maxilla impact. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The 3-dimensional finite element model was based on a CT scan film of an average korean adult when the subject is using a customized mouthguard which was made with the Signature Mouthguard system of Dreve. The load was applied to the upper central incisor cervical area parellel impact force for 0.1sec(L1), The Von-mises stress analysis with a mouthguard and without a mouthguard was compared.
RESULTS
The results of this study were as follows: 1. Without the mouthguard, stress was concentrated on teeth and alveolar bone in all load conditions. 2. With the mouthguard, maximum stress value was decreased and stress was dispersed in all load conditions. 3. Stress extinction with the mouthguard was faster than without the mouthguard in all load conditions.
CONCLUSION
We acknowledged that the mouthguard has a stress buffer effect as the maximum stress value was decreased and stress was dispersed when impact force was applied.