デジタル製造されたスペースメイテナーの生体力学的性能評価：有限要素解析

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of band and loop space maintainers, fabricated using digital technologies, and the luting cements used for their fixation, on mesio-distal tooth movement using the Finite Element Analysis method. Additionally, the biomechanical performance of the materials was analyzed by comparing the maximum Von Mises stress distribution.

A total of fifteen finite element models were created using combinations of five different band and loop materials (BruxZir, Conventional, Trilor, polyetheretherketone and carbon fiber-reinforced polyetheretherketone) and three types of luting cements: conventional glass ionomer cement, resin-modified glass ionomer cement, and dual-cure resin cement. A vertical force of 70 Newton was applied in the occluso-gingival direction at the band-loop junction in each model. Stress distribution and potential failure zones were analyzed using the finite element analysis method.

Among the tested materials, BruxZir exhibited the least amount of displacement and generated the lowest stress on the tooth. It was followed by Conventional, Trilor, and carbon fiber-reinforced polyetheretherketone and polyetheretherketone. Polyetheretherketone showed the highest level of displacement. When comparing luting cements, the resin-modified glass ionomer, which has the lowest elastic modulus, caused the greatest mesial movement. This was followed by the self-adhesive resin cement and the conventional glass ionomer cement.

The integration of digital technologies in pediatric dentistry enables the clinical use of space maintainers fabricated from various advanced materials. However, further clinical studies are necessary to assess the long-term success and biocompatibility of these digital materials.