Korean J Orthod.  2005 Apr;35(2):137-147.

Three-dimensional finite element analysis on the effect of maxillary incisor torque

• Yoon HJ
• Lim YK
• Lee DY
• Jo YS

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the stress distribution in the periodontal tissue and the displacement of teeth when active torque was applied to the maxillary incisors by three-dimensional finite element analysis. A three-dimensional finite element model consisted of the maxillary teeth and surrounding periodontal membrane, .022 x .028 Roth prescription bracket and stainless steel, NiTi and TMA rectangular ideal arch wires which were modeled by hexahedron elements. Applied active torques were 2, 5 and 10 degrees. The findings of this study showed that the reaction force acting on the bracket was the extrusion force on the mesial side of the incisors and canine and the intrusion force on the distal side of the incisors and canine. The amount of force and moment was greatest at the lateral incisor. When active anterior labial crown torque was applied, labial crown and distal tipping and intrusion of the incisors took place, and lingual crown distal tipping and extrusion of the canine occured. An excessive force was concentrated on the lateral incisor, when the stainless steel wire was used. NiTi or TMA wire is desirable for torque control.

Keyword

Torque; Maxillary incisor; Finite element analysis

MeSH Terms

Crowns
Finite Element Analysis*
Incisor*
Membranes
Prescriptions
Stainless Steel
Tooth
Torque*
Stainless Steel