Evaluating the Safety and Efficacy of Dental Pacifiers through Finite Element Analysis

Could you describe your experience with finite element analysis (FEA), particularly as it pertains to dental products?

My extensive experience dealing with forensic incident mechanics and injury biomechanics cases, including medical device failures, has equipped me with a deep understanding of FEA.

My background in computational modeling is rooted in fundamental physics that guide the mechanistic approach used to assess or inform the design process. This extends into multiscale realms, offering new insights into the functionality of medical devices like orthopedic and dental implants.

In general terms, what aspects of an FEA analysis would be crucial in determining the validity of the results, and their applicability to the general population for whom the product is intended?

Two key aspects are pivotal for model validation among many essential factors. Macroscale issues involve ensuring that the model accurately reflects anatomical geometries, biomaterial properties, and tissue properties. Microscale issues require each computational element to incorporate appropriate mathematical physics at a continuum scale pertinent to the modeled environment. A clinical model only holds value if validated through experimental, animal, or human testing before release to the general population.

Have you ever reviewed a similar case? If yes, could you please elaborate?

Yes, I routinely handle cases that use models to characterize forensic incidents. I have examined the biomechanical and biomaterial performance of devices as they interface with the biological environment.

My own model development has delved into the subtle mathematics and programming codes associated with the resulting software.