[The stress distribution of the temporomandibular joint under four types of inter-arch elastics--a three dimentional finite element model analysis].

Objective: To analyze the influence of four types (class II long elastic, class II short elastic, class III long elastic, class III short elastic) of inter-arch elastics on the stress distribution and displacement of temporomandibular joint (TMJ).

Methods: To reconstruct a three-dimensional element model of left craniofacial bones with TMJ, maxilla, mandible and dentition with MBT straight wire appliance by CT images, Mimics, Ansys software. The influence of four types elastic on the model was analyzed by simulating the clinical conditions.