Finite-element modeling and analysis in nanomedicine and dentistry.

This article aims to provide a brief background to the current applications of finite-element analysis (FEA) in nanomedicine and dentistry. FEA was introduced in orthopedic biomechanics in the 1970s in order to assess the stresses and deformation in human bones during functional loadings and in the design and analysis of implants. Since then, it has been applied with great frequency in orthopedics and dentistry in order to analyze issues such as implant design, bone remodeling and fracture healing, the mechanical properties of biomedical coatings on implants and the interactions at the bone-implant interface.

Biomechanics and functional distortion of the human mandible.

The reaction to the use of finite element analysis (FEA) in the study of the human body has been particularly enthusiastic. Of equal and challenging complexity is the investigation of load/stress distribution and morphological distortion of the human mandible under functional loads. Furthermore, the mandible also impacts directly on body function and esthetics, playing a vital role, such as mastication and speech.