A three-dimensional topology optimization model for tooth-root morphology

Abstract

To obtain the root of a lower incisor through structural optimization, we used two methods: optimization with Solid Isotropic Material with Penalization (SIMP) and Soft-Kill Option (SKO). The optimization was carried out in combination with a finite element analysis in Abaqus/Standard. The model geometry was based on cone-beam tomography scans of 10 adult males with healthy bone-tooth interface. Our results demonstrate that the optimization method using SIMP for minimum compliance could not adequately predict the actual root shape. The SKO method, however, provided optimization results that were comparable to the natural root form and is therefore suitable to set up the basic topology of a dental root.

Keywords:

• Dental biomechanics
• finite element method
• topology optimization
• SKO
• SIMP

Acknowledgements

We thank Lilja Polak for technical assistance and critically reading the manuscript.