Three-dimensional analysis of an orthodontic delta spring

• Autor(a) principal: Rodrigues,Fábio Rodrigo Mandello
• Data de Publicação: 2014
• Outros Autores: Borges,Paulo César, Luersen,Marco Antônio, Ferreira,Marcelo do Amaral
• Tipo de documento: Artigo
• Idioma: eng
• Título da fonte: Revista Brasileira de Engenharia Biomédica (Online)
• Texto Completo: http://old.scielo.br/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S1517-31512014000300007
• topic: Delta orthodontic spring; Finite element analysis; Moment-force ratio

INTRODUCTION: The purpose of this study was to analyze the force system, moment-force ratios (M/F) and von Mises stresses in an orthodontic delta spring using a 3D finite element model. The M/F ratio produced by an orthodontic spring is related to the different types of tooth movement that are likely to occur in the sagittal and occlusal planes. METHODS: Analyses were performed using a 3D finite element model, and a data acquisition system was used to validate the numerical results. RESULTS: Reactive forces between 0.0 and 2.0 N were observed along the x-axis, while null values were observed along the y- and z-axes. The maximum activation that ensured geometric stability and mechanical stresses below the elastic limit of the material was 10.0 mm. CONCLUSION: The results indicate that a delta spring can provide (i) uncontrolled tipping for activation of less than 1.0 mm; (ii) controlled counterclockwise tipping for activation between 1.0 and 4.5 mm; (iii) translation for activation between 4.5 and 5.0 mm; and (iv) controlled clockwise tipping in the sagittal plane for activation between 5.0 and 10.0 mm. No tooth movement was observed in the occlusal plane for the M/F ratios observed.