The influence of Kitchon-RCAA on biomechanics of maxillary tissues based on indirect action: A finite element analysis

Proc Inst Mech Eng H. 2024 Dec 27:9544119241305468. doi: 10.1177/09544119241305468. Online ahead of print.

Abstract

This paper creates 3D models of Kitchon Root Controlled Auxiliary Archwire (Kitchon-RCAA) with different material properties and assembles them onto the main archwire equipped with brackets. By setting different loading methods and conducting Finite Element Analysis (FEA), the range of Orthodontic Torque/Support Force (OT/SF) values can be obtained. From the obtained values, it can be seen that changes in material properties have a significant impact on the mechanical properties of Kitchon-RCAA. When the properties of the Kitchon-RCAA material change two or more times, the mechanical values generated by Kitchon-RCAA cannot be directly added from two or more separate changes in the properties of the material. Therefore, it is necessary to simulate the model after each parameter change to obtain new results. And then the maxillary bio-model is reconstructed in reverse based on Cone Beam Computerized Tomography (CBCT) images. The biomechanical data equivalent to the mechanical mechanics generated by the root control assisted archwire is also added to the corresponding tooth positions, making indirect orthodontic behavior of Kitchon-RCAA on teeth possible. From the obtained results, it can be seen that the von Mises stress and total deformation magnitude for both normal teeth and corresponding Periodontal Ligament (PDL) position show a stable trend, while the Right Cuspid (R-C) and corresponding PDL with malformed root have a large stress concentration and may have a mold penetration problem. Overall, this paper not only analyses the mechanical behavior of the Kitchon-RCAA, this article not only analyzed the mechanical behavior of Kitchon-RCAA, but also its effect on the indirect biomechanical behavior of the teeth and PDL. And in combination with simulation result nephograms, it also enables predictability and visualization of orthodontic results. This helps dentists to provide safer and more reliable individualized orthodontic treatment plans for patients.

Keywords: Kitchon root controlled auxiliary archwire; alveolar bone stress; finite element analysis; orthodontic force; tooth movement.