Biomechanical modeling of dentulous mandible-straight wire appliance

Objective: To establish the model of dentulous mandible and straight wire appliance and investigate the stress and displacement distributions of the roots and periodontal tissues under en masse space closure with sliding mechanics. Methods: The three-dimensional finite element model of mandible and teeth was developed from CT images, which consisted of the dentin, enamel, dental pulp, PDL (periodontal ligament), cortical and cancellous bone. The models of Roth straight wire brackets with actual data were also constructed. The dental adhesives were used to stick the brackets on the corresponding teeth. Contact elements were used to simulate the interaction between the stainless steel arch wire and the brackets. Moreover, spring elements were used to connect the brackets and the arch wire. The load with the vale of 1 N was applied on the model to close the space. Results: The lingual tipping of lateral and central incisors was found, corresponding with the clinical observation of en masse space closure with sliding mechanics. High stress in the teeth and periodontal tissue appeared at the incisors and the distal roots of the first molars. The maximum von Mises stresses in PDL of the central incisors and the distal roots of the first molars were 3.97 kPa and 5.75 kPa, respectively. Conclusions: In order to avoid root resorption of incisors, the torque of the brackets could be increased. Less orthodontic forces or orthodontic implant could be used to avoid distal roots of first molars.