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The effects of palatal anchorage device on molar distalization with clear aligner: Three-dimensional finite element
Xuan Tang1, Mengjie Wang1, Xueqin Hu1
1Chongqing Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases and Biomedical Sciences, Chongqing, China; Department of Orthodontics, Stomatological Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China; Chongqing Municipal Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedical Engineering of Higher Education, Chongqing, China.
Introduction:
This study aimed to analyze the biomechanical effects of the combined use of clear aligner and palatal anchorage devices (transpalatal arch [TPA], combination of TPA and microimplant [MI]) during maxillary molar distalization.
Methods:
Three-dimensional finite element models were established to simulate molar distalization, incorporating 7 configurations: Without-TPA, TPA-no-MI, TPA-with-MI1, TPA-with-MI2, TPA-with-MI3, TPA-with-MI4, and TPA-with-MI5. The 3-dimensional displacements of upper teeth and von Mises stress distribution in the periodontal ligament were evaluated.
Results:
The use of palatal anchorage devices enhanced the anchorage of anterior teeth and improved molar distalization. The efficacy of anchorage enhancement is related to the relative position of MI and the center of resistance of the maxillary dentition.
Conclusions:
TPA placed on the first premolars effectively reinforces anterior anchorage during molar distalization with clear aligner. The combination of TPA and palatal MI can strengthen anterior tooth anchorage further.
