Scientific use of the finite element method in Orthodontics.

Introduction: The finite element method (FEM) is an engineering resource applied to calculate the stress and deformation of complex structures, and has been widely used in orthodontic research. With the advantage of being a non-invasive and accurate method that provides quantitative and detailed data on the physiological reactions possible to occur in tissues, applying the FEM can anticipate the visualization of these tissue responses through the observation of areas of stress created from applied orthodontic mechanics.

Objective: This article aims at reviewing and discussing the stages of the finite element method application and its applicability in Orthodontics.

Controlling mechanical undesirable side effects with a tooth indicated for extraction: free anchorage.

This manuscript describes the use of a tooth indicated for extraction due to orthodontic reasons as an anchorage aid to receive undesirable side effects caused by orthodontic uprighting of a contralateral molar tooth. The mandibular right second molar was mesially tipped as a result of loss of the adjacent first molar. Since the treatment plan involved extraction of the mandibular left first premolar, undesirable side effects associated with the molar uprighting movement were transferred to this tooth.

Continuous torque system with control of the reaction unit.

This article describes an orthodontic system used to obtain active continuous torque with movement control of both active and reactive units; the system relies on principles of the segmented technique. A cantilever system with .017 x .