The Influence of Heights of Power Arm for Controlled Anterior Teeth Movement in Sliding Mechanics: A 3D FEM Study

Introduction: The effectiveness of orthodontic treatment depends on precise control of the anterior teeth during retraction in sliding mechanics. That is why researchers were interested in finding the appropriate loading conditions for sliding mechanics to govern anterior teeth's movement, such as the height of retraction force application and its location on the arch wire.

Methods: A FEM study was conducted to evaluate the type of movement of anterior teeth during en-masse retraction by applying 200 gms of force to each side of the maxillary arch with power arms set at various levels (4 mm, 6 mm, 8 mm) mesial to canine from mini-screw placed at a height of 8 mm between maxillary first molar and second premolar. A 3D model (FEM) of the maxillary arch was constructed to study the amount of labio-lingual tipping and bodily displacement of maxillary central incisor achieved.

Results: When a 200-gm power was applied to the power arm, controlled lingual crown tipping was seen at the levels of 4 mm and 6 mm, in contrast to the level of 8 mm, where bodily displacement occurred, according to this evaluation. Conclusion: In sliding mechanics, the height of the power arm plays an important role in obtaining controlled lingual crown tipping or bodily displacement during retraction of anterior teeth.