ABSTRACT
This study was designed to describe modelling procedures of the human craniofacial complex for finite element analysis (FEA) and to investigate biomechanical responses of the complex to artificial and functional loadings during orthopaedic therapy and biting functions. Stresses in the nasomaxillary sutures were varied by the direction of orthopaedic force and directing the line of force closer to the CRe produced the most optimal suturai modification for controlling natural maxillary growth. Differences in bite force direction due to posterior cross-bite with bone defect significantly affected mechanical loadings on bony structures and the subsequent maxillofacial growth, indicating an important role of bone grafting in maintaining the normal bony architecture and the subsequent growth of the maxillary complex.
