A Comparative Evaluation Of Canine Retraction and Anchor Loss using Ceramic and Stainless Steel MBT Pre-adjusted Edgewise Brackets using Three Dimentional Finite Element Method

Background and Objectives: Simulation of orthodontic force can provide crucial insights on design and implications of orthodontic apparatus like brackets. Ceramic brackets although aesthetic, can create frictional resistance with orthodontic wires. Hence, this study employed Finite element method to evaluate and compare the canine retraction and anchor loss facilitated by pre-adjusted edgewise ceramic brackets and conventional metal bracket systems. Materials and Method: The study model was generated using the CBCT with favourable conditions of first premolar extraction for orthodontic correction. Finite element model of the maxilla and the teeth were simulated using the MIMICS software. A force of 50 grams was applied for canine retraction with elastomeric chain using preadjusted MBT (MacLaughlin, Bennet and Trevisi system) edgewise brackets of ceramic and metal respectively. ANSYS software was used for the analysis to evaluate the rate of canine retraction, anchor loss and stress generated. Results: The effective tooth displacement, von Mises stress and stress simulated by FEM were comparatively greater inthe metallic, than inthe ceramic brackets. During retraction, distal, lingual and intrusive displacement of canine was visualised to be greaterwith metallic bracketsin comparison to their ceramic counterparts. Metallic wire and bracket featured the same Young's modulus as they are made of similar materials hence, the force applied led to a greater retraction of canine, unlike ceramic brackets. Conclusion: As per FEM analysis, stainless steel brackets were a more effective method for tooth displacement andrapid canine retraction with limited anchor loss. FEM can improve suitability and efficiency of orthodontic design by enabling a multidimensional analysis.