International Society of Biomechanics Technical Group Computer Simulation

A three-dimensional finite element model was created to analyze the influence of periodontal ligament (PDL) fibers on orthodontic tooth movement. Parametric studies were performed to ascertain the importance of fiber Young's modulus and orientation on the locations of the centers of rotation and resistance of a single-rooted tooth under a mesio-distal orthodontic load. If the Young's modulus is changed from 10 to 90 MPa, the center of rotation moves about 9.8% of root length. The center of resistance changes about 1.1% of root length. For fiber angulation between 0 and 60, the centers of rotation and resistance vary about 3.3% and 3.9% of root length, respectively. Thus, neither center is very sensitive to changes in PDL fiber stiffness and orientation.