The finite element method is a mathematical approach used to examine
continua and structures. Typically, the problem at hand is too difficult to be resolved in
a satisfactory manner using classical analytical means. Introduced initially as an
approach used to explain structural mechanics problems, finite element analysis was
rapidly acknowledged as a universal technique of mathematical approximation to all
physical problems that can be modelled by a differential equation description. The
application of finite element analysis in dentistry related to the deformations during
functional loadings and in the design and analysis of implants accelerated after the
1980’s. This method has been widely accepted and applied in engineering and
biomedical systems with increasing frequency for stress analyses of soft and hard
tissues, bone and bone-prosthesis structures, fracture fixation devices, and dental
implants and devices ever since. The finite element approach has also been applied in
nanomechanical testing and nanoindentation to assess the biomechanical properties of
nanocoatings on implants and devices.
Keywords: Anisotropic, Convergence test, Elastic modulus, Element
characteristic matrix, Finite element analysis, Finite element modeling, Isotropic,
Material properties, Non-linear analysis, Poissons ratio, Transversely isotropic.
