Precision Orthodontic Force Simulation Using Nodal Displacement-Based Archwire Loading Approach

Precision in force simulationis critical for forecasting tooth movement and optimizing orthodontic treatment strategies. While traditional techniques have provided valuable insights, there remains a need for improved methodologies that can seamlessly integrate with fixed orthodontic practices. This study aims to refine orthodontic force simulation techniques by integrating a nodal displacement approach within finite element analysis, specifically designed to enhance prediction accuracy in tooth movement and optimize orthodontic treatment planning. Three-dimensional patient-specific models of the Tooth, Periodontal Ligament, and Bone Complex (TPBC) of five volunteers were created, along with models of brackets and wires. The simulation involved an initial step of estimating node displacements to align the archwire with the brackets, followed by a subsequent step to attain the required tooth movement and determine the orthodontic force. Experimental validation of the simulation results was performed using an orthodontic force tester (OFT). Utilizing the nodal displacement approach, the simulation successfully positioned the archwire onto the brackets. When benchmarked against the OFT, 80% of the simulated force directions exhibited angular discrepancies of less than 5°. Additionally, the absolute differences in force magnitude reached 20.06 cN, and in moments, up to 71.76 cN mm. The relative differences were as high as 9.55% for force and 13.83% for moments. These findings represent an improvement of up to 10.45% in force accuracy and 8.87% in moment accuracy compared to median values reported in most recent literature. In this research, a nodal displacement methodology was employed to simulate orthodontic forces with precision across the dental arch. The results demonstrate the approache's potential to enhance the accuracy of force prediction in orthodontic treatment planning, thereby advancing our understanding of orthodontic biomechanics.