A comparative finite element analysis of maxillary expansion with and without midpalatal suture viscoelasticity using a representative skeletal geometry

The goal of this investigation was to adapt and incorporate a nonlinear viscoelastic material model representative of the midpalatal suture's viscoelastic nature into finite element analysis simulations of maxillary expansion treatment. Step-wise displacements were applied to a partial skull geometry to simulate treatment using an expansion screw appliance. Four simulation cases were considered for the midpalatal and intermaxillary sutures: 1. Neglecting suture tissue; 2. Linear elastic properties; 3. Viscoelastic properties; 4. A fused intermaxillary and viscoelastic midpalatal suture. Results from simulations indicated that removal of suture tissue and inclusion of viscoelastic properties resulted in the same maxillary displacement following 29 activations of 0.125 mm applied directly to the maxilla; however, assuming a fused intermaxillary suture significantly changed maxillary displacement patterns. Initial stress results within the suture complex were significantly influenced by the inclusion of suture viscoelasticity as compared to linear elastic properties. The presented study demonstrates successful incorporation of suture viscoelasticity into finite element analysis simulations of maxillary expansion treatment, and elucidates the appropriateness of various suture material property assumptions depending desired research outcomes.