Biomechanical Effects of Torquing on Upper Central Incisor with Thermoplastic Aligner: A Comparative Three-Dimensional Finite Element Study with and Without Auxillaries

Abstract

Background and Objectives: This study was conducted to determine the effective method to torque the incisor with thermoplastic aligner using a three-dimensional (3D) finite element method. Materials and Methods: Three finite element models of maxilla and maxillary dentition were developed. In the first model, thermoplastic aligner without any auxiliaries was used. In the second and third models, thermoplastic aligner with horizontal ellipsoid composite attachment and power ridge were used, respectively. The software used for the study was ANSYS 14.5 FE. A force of 100 g was applied to torque the upper right central incisor. The resultant force transfer, stress distribution, and tooth displacement were evaluated. Results: The overall tooth displacement and stress distribution appeared high in the model with power ridge, whereas the root movement was more in the horizontal ellipsoid composite attachment model. The model without any auxillaries produced least root movement and stress distribution. Conclusion: Horizontal ellipsoid composite attachment achieved better torque of central incisor than the model with power ridge and model without any auxillaries.