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Dynamic biomechanical changes of clear aligners during extraction space closure: Finite element analysis
Yi-Gan Wang1, Guan-Yin Zhu1, Jun-Qi Liu1
1State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases and National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China; Department of Orthodontics, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
Clear aligners (CAs) demonstrate increasing tooth movement and improved control during orthodontic space closure. This dynamic biomechanical analysis offers insights for optimizing CA treatment strategies.
Area of Science:
- Orthodontics
- Biomechanics
- Dental Materials
Background:
- Clear aligners (CAs) are increasingly popular orthodontic appliances.
- Understanding CA biomechanics is crucial for treatment efficiency, especially in extraction cases.
- Previous research primarily used static analysis, neglecting dynamic changes during space closure.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the dynamic biomechanical changes of clear aligners during orthodontic space closure.
- To analyze the clinical value of these dynamic biomechanical characteristics.
Main Methods:
- Developed sequential extraction space-closing models from patient data.
- Utilized finite element analysis for biomechanical data acquisition.
- Employed a dual coordinate system and space geometry analysis for accurate property demonstration.
Main Results:
- Observed increased instantaneous tooth displacements and enhanced space closure force as space closure progressed.
- Noted a continuous shift in the anterior teeth's axis of rotation towards the labial-apical direction.
- Documented a gradually enhanced vertical and torque control effect during treatment.
Conclusions:
- Clear aligners exhibit specific dynamic biomechanical changes during space closure, including increased contraction and control forces.
- These effects help mitigate the 'roller coaster effect' in orthodontic treatment.
- Findings support the development of improved staging and design strategies for clear aligner therapy.
