title: Three-dimensional finite-element analysis of a central lower incisor under labial and lingual loads.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  The aim was to evaluate the differences between labial and lingual application of an orthodontic force. This was achieved using a three-dimensional CAD design software model of a real lower incisor surrounded by a prismatic representation of the mandibular bone. This model was subjected to various loading conditions, with finite-element analysis.
  
  
  METHODS
  Cone-beam computed tomography scanning was used to create a three-dimensional geometric model of a lower incisor, together with its simulated periodontal ligament. This model was then meshed and analysed with commercial finite-element code. Various single and combined forces and moments were applied to each side of the simulated lower incisor at the centre of the clinical crown. To evaluate the effects of the various forces considered, the instantaneous displacement and stress generated in the bone and the periodontal ligament were measured, as a comparison of the labial and lingual loading sites.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Dental movement was only influenced by the side of the force application when an intrusive component was present. The simulations showed larger displacement when a vertical force was present at the lingual surface. In general, this movement was of the tipping type when the combined forces were applied, while there was greater intrusion upon application of combined forces and an anticlockwise moment to the labial surface.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Application of an intrusive lingual force to a lower incisor appears to generate bodily movement, while the same intrusive labial force appears to lead to labial tipping. Subject to further study, this should be taken into consideration when devising treatment plans for fixed appliances.
authors.affiliation: Department of Orthodontics, University of Ferrara, Italy. lulombardo@tiscali.it
authors.forename: Luca
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Lombardo
authors.forename: Filippo
authors.initials: F
authors.lastname: Stefanoni
authors.forename: Francesco
authors.initials: F
authors.lastname: Mollica
authors.forename: Attoresi
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Laura
authors.forename: Giuseppe
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Scuzzo
authors.forename: Giuseppe
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Siciliani
mesh_terms: D001696:Biomechanical Phenomena; D003198:Computer Simulation; D017076:Computer-Aided Design; D054893:Cone-Beam Computed Tomography / Q000379:methods; D055119:Elastic Modulus; D020342:Finite Element Analysis; D006801:Humans; D021621:Imaging, Three-Dimensional / Q000379:methods*; D007180:Incisor / Q000033:anatomy & histology / Q000502:physiology*; D008334:Mandible / Q000033:anatomy & histology / Q000502:physiology; D008954:Models, Biological; D016910:Orthodontic Brackets; D010513:Periodontal Ligament / Q000033:anatomy & histology / Q000502:physiology; D012399:Rotation; D012984:Software; D013314:Stress, Mechanical; D019228:Tooth Crown / Q000033:anatomy & histology / Q000502:physiology; D014087:Tooth Movement Techniques / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*