Finite-element analysis of the center of resistance of the mandibular dentition

OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to investigate the three-dimensional (3D) position of the center of resistance of 4 mandibular anterior teeth, 6 mandibular anterior teeth, and the complete mandibular dentition by using 3D finite-element analysis. METHODS Finite-element models included the complete mandibular dentition, periodontal ligament, and alveolar bone. The crowns of teeth in each group were fixed with buccal and lingual arch wires and lingual splint wires to minimize individual tooth movement and to evenly disperse the forces onto the teeth. Each group of teeth was subdivided into 0.5-mm intervals horizontally and vertically, and a force of 200 g was applied on each group. The center of resistance was defined as the point where the applied force induced parallel movement. RESULTS The center of resistance of the 4 mandibular anterior teeth group was 13.0 mm apical and 6.0 mm posterior, that of the 6 mandibular anterior teeth group was 13.5 mm apical and 8.5 mm posterior, and that of the complete mandibular dentition group was 13.5 mm apical and 25.0 mm posterior to the incisal edge of the mandibular central incisors. CONCLUSIONS Finite-element analysis was useful in determining the 3D position of the center of resistance of the 4 mandibular anterior teeth group, 6 mandibular anterior teeth group, and complete mandibular dentition group.