Objective      To apply direct modeling and indirect modeling in the establishment of a three-dimensional finite element model of mandible and temporomandibular joint with high biomechanical similarity.       Methods      The magnitude and distribution of Von Mises stress in mandibular three-dimensional finite element model established by the direct modeling and indirect modeling was compared and analyzed. Same boundary conditions were adopted. The same level of anterior-posterior impact load at the mental symphysis was analyzed. The results were analyzed and compared.       Results      In the peak of load

the von Mises stress distributions of these 2 models were similar. The value of von Mises stress in stress concentration area of direct m

odeling ranged from 87 to 195 MPa

and from 101 to 153 MPa in Model B. Paired student’s t test was used to analyze the value of each node on 3 corresponding areas of each model

and the results showed that the differences between the 2 modeling had no significant difference (

P

>0.05).       Conclusion      These 2 three-dimensional finite element models of mandible established by direct and indirect modeling are of highly biomechanical similarity.