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A Finite Element Approach for Locating the Center of Resistance of Maxillary Teeth
Published on: April 8, 2020
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Numeric simulation model for long-term orthodontic tooth movement with contact boundary conditions using the finite
Ryo Hamanaka1, Satoshi Yamaoka1, Tuan Nguyen Anh1
1Department of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan.
Summary
This study presents a new finite element analysis method to simulate long-term orthodontic tooth movement. The model accurately predicts tooth movement patterns and force systems during space closure with sliding mechanics, accounting for bracket-archwire play.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Orthodontics
- Computational Mechanics
Background:
- Previous finite element method (FEM) simulations of orthodontic tooth movement were limited to initial displacement and did not consider appliance play or interproximal forces.
- Evaluating long-term tooth movement effects requires models that incorporate these complex interactions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To simulate long-term orthodontic tooth movement using the edgewise appliance.
- To incorporate bracket-archwire play and interproximal contact forces into a finite element model.
- To determine the force system during space closure with sliding mechanics.
Main Methods:
- A 3D finite element model of maxillary dentition was created with 0.022-in brackets and 0.019 x 0.025-in archwire.
- Forces simulating sliding mechanics (100 cN) were applied.
- Bone remodeling was correlated with initial tooth displacement.
Main Results:
- The developed method successfully represented changes in the moment-to-force ratio.
- Tooth movement patterns during space closure were accurately depicted.
Conclusions:
- A novel FEM method was developed for simulating long-term orthodontic tooth movement.
- This method accurately determines the force system over time by including contact boundary conditions.
- Friction progressively increases during space closure in sliding mechanics.
