Nature-inspired shape optimization of dental restoration for replacing single missing tooth

Abstract

The purpose of this research was to explore the various features of a natural tooth's inherent structural design of a natural tooth that enable it to perform its mechanical functions effectively, and then to apply the principles and techniques inspired by these investigations to the design of prostheses for replacing a single missing tooth. The biomechanical analysis of the natural tooth was performed on both a macroscopic (overall shape as determined by its anatomy) and a microscopic (effect of microstructures on bulk material properties and their distribution) scale. The nature-inspired design guidelines were then implemented within a FE framework for optimizing dental prostheses designs. Finally, the mechanical performances of the optimal designs derived from the numerical models were validated with in vitro tests.