Details of Grant 

EPSRC Reference:	GR/S17932/01
Title:	Development of a constitutive model for the peridontal ligament using a novel motion analysis technique
Principal Investigator:	Middleton, Professor J
Other Investigators:	Knox, Dr J Aeschlimann, Professor DP
Researcher Co-Investigators:	Professor S Evans
Project Partners:	Wilde and Partners Ltd WS Atkins
Department:	Dentistry
Organisation:	Cardiff University
Scheme:	Standard Research (Pre-FEC)
Starts:	01 February 2004	Ends:	31 January 2007	Value (£):	138,028
EPSRC Research Topic Classifications:	Musculoskeletal system
EPSRC Industrial Sector Classifications:	Healthcare Technical Consultancy
Related Grants:	GR/S17949/01
Panel History:
Summary on Grant Application Form
It has long been know that the PDL is a complex tissue structure which exhibits non-linear behaviour and furthermore that many of the simplified mode ls (homogeneous/isotropic) proposed for this structure have failed to accurately predict mechanical response or the biological reaction of the tissue. Here it is proposed to develop a model based on a coupled solid and fluid phase together with homogenisation techniques which considers the size and distribution of the collagen fibrils within the PDL. This model will be developed in parallel with an in vivo experimental programme using human volunteers. Here a novel motion analysis system using digitised camera images and external marker clusters will be used to measure the translation and rotation of a tooth subject to various loading scenarios. The in vivo measurements obtained (time dependent load/displacement tooth movement) will then be used to provide input for the development of a constitutive model were the material parameters can be identified through the matching of experiment data with the proposed computational model. This technique provides the means of validating the modelling concept proposed(using methods employed in other areas by the proposers). It will also provide a set of parameters that will allow the non-linear response of the human PDL to be accurately modelled. The methodology proposed provides a quantitative tool in gaining a better understanding of tooth mobility and could be employed to assess new medical/dental devices and treatment plans. Also since the technique is formulated within a experimental/finite element framework it is also applicable to a wide range of other biomechanical applications such as tendons, ligaments and skin.
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