Three-dimensional finite element analysis of the bracket positioning plane in lingual orthodontics

Kim, Sun Hwa; Park, Soo Byung; Yang, Hoon Chul

Abstract

This study was performed to investigate the location of the ideal bracket positioning plane in lingual orthodontics using the three-dimensional finite element method. Displacement of the anterior teeth were evaluated according to the vertical and the angular movements of the bracket positioning plane. To achieve the ideal movement of anterior teeth in the lingual central plane, the location of the force application point and the amount of the moment applied to the four incisors were evaluated. As the bracket positioning plane was moved parallel toward the incisal edge, uncontrolled tipping and extrusion of the maxillary and the mandibular incisors were increased. But lingual tipping of the crown was decreased in the maxillary and the mandibular canines. As the bracket positioning plane was inclined toward the incisal edge, lingual tipping was increased in the 6 anterior teeth and extrusion of incisors and intrusion of the canine was also increased. As the retraction hook of the canine bracket was elongated, lingual tipping and extrusion of the central incisor and mesial movement and extrusion of the lateral incisor were increased. In the canine, mesial and labial movements of the crown were increased. When the moment was applied to the 4 incisors of the maxillary and the mandibular arch in the lingual central plane, 280 gf-mm in the maxillary central incisor, 500 gf-mm in the maxillary lateral incisor, 170 gf-mm in the mandibular central incisor and 370 gf-mm in the mandibular lateral incisor produced bodily movement of the individual tooth.