Effects of clear aligner edentulous space design on distal canine movement: An iterative finite element analysis in cases involving extraction
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Objective: Using finite element method (FEM) analysis of a clear aligner (CA), this study aimed to investigate the effects of varying the edentulous space on canine distal bodily movement during space closure following maxillary first premolar extraction. Methods: FEM analysis was used to simulate distal canine bodily movement following maxillary first premolar extraction using CAs. Four CA designs for edentulous spaces were compared: no-pontic, full-pontic, half-pontic, and beam. Three-dimensional models of the tooth components and CA were created. The target was set at a 0.25-mm distal canine movement. Long-term tooth movement was simulated using an iterative calculation method. Results: All the groups initially showed crown displacement, distal tipping, and distal rotation. Over time, the movement patterns differed in relation to the design. The no-pontic design exhibited the greatest displacement and tipping. The beam design exhibited the largest initial displacement but showed the lowest displacement and tipping thereafter. Full- and half-pontic designs yielded intermediate results. Significant force reduction was observed immediately after CA application, and was followed by a gradual decrease. The mean tooth-movement achievement rate was approximately 76.7%. Conclusions: The edentulous space design of the CA substantially affected tooth-movement behavior. An iterative simulation is necessary to evaluate long-term tooth-movement patterns. The beam design demonstrated optimal suitability for bodily movement with minimal tipping. For optimal results, additional setup or overcorrection may be necessary.
DOI: 10.4041/kjod24.286
Authors: Seung Eun Baek, Kiyean Kim, Youn-Kyung Choi, Sung-Hun Kim, Seong-Sik Kim, Ki Beom Kim, Yong-Il Kim
Language: English
Subfield: Orthodontics
Field: Dentistry
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W4409131353