Comparative evaluation of variations in torque expression in maxillary incisor and canine using different bracket prescriptions placed at different crown levels by finite element (FE) method: An analysis.

Objective: While using preadjusted brackets, the position of the bracket on the crown is one of the deciding factors that determine the tooth's final tip, torque, height, and rotation. The final tooth position is not optimal if the bracket is placed incorrectly or if the varying crown morphology does not correspond with the bracket design. The present study was conducted to evaluate and compare the variations in torque expression in maxillary incisor and canine using different bracket prescriptions placed at different crown levels by finite element method.

Methods: For the present study, three-dimensional models of maxillary right central incisor and canine were made using CREO version 4.0 software. CREO is a powerful three-dimensional (3-D) computer-based, computer-aided design (CAD) software developed by Parametric Technology Corporation (PTC) to aid in design processes. Simulation was done to replicate the clinical situation of an active palatal root torque acting on the incisor and canine. The induced palatal movement of root tips and labial movement of crowns tips, overall stress, and von Mises stress generated in the brackets and the total equivalent strains developed in the periodontal ligament (PDL) were calculated, while the values obtained were tabulated and subjected to statistical analysis.

Results: Based on the findings of the present study, the average maximum stress produced in the bracket was calculated as 265.069 Mpa in incisor and 166.742 Mpa in the canine. Likewise, the average of the maximum displacement of root apex observed in the present study was calculated as 0.01401 mm in the incisor and 0.00421 mm in the canine, while the average strain developed in the PDL was calculated as 0.0587 for incisor and 0.0498 for the canine. Furthermore, it was, also, observed that the magnitude of strain developed in the PDL increased with increase in the stress produced by the bracket prescription for both incisor and canine.

Conclusions: Within the limitations of the present study, it was concluded that the magnitude of displacement of root apex was significantly influenced by bracket prescription and bracket position. Also, the stress developed in the bracket was influenced by bracket prescription and position, while the variation in crown morphology in the incisor and canine played a significant role in the eventual strain developed in the PDL after torque application.