Effect of load on the temporomandibular joints with different occlusal positions using a dry skull

Abstract

We investigated the magnitude of occlusal pressure and stress distribution on the condylar head produced by experimental occlusal forces imparted at different positions of occlusal support using a dry human skull Occlusal pressure increased as the occlusal support was moved distally Pressure on the frontal area of the head of the condyle on the nonworking side decreased as the posterior occlusal support increased, while pressure on the top of the condyle increased Little pressure was measured on the frontal and lateral areas of the head of the condyle on the working side when occlusal support was on the first premolar Pressure on the frontal and lateral areas of the nonworking condyle head was decreased when occlusal support was on the posterior teeth, and the working side condyle head floated in the maxillary fossa when occlusal support was on the second and third molars Pressure on the condyle head changed position and magnitude depending on the occlusal support Special care should be taken when changing the antero-postenor positions of molars during orthodontic treatment