Stress distribution evaluation of the periodontal ligament in the maxillary canine for retraction by different alveolar corticotomy techniques: A three-dimensional finite element analysis

Abstract

Aim: By using the finite element method (FEM), this study aimed to evaluate the effect of different corticotomy formats on the distribution and magnitude of stress on the periodontal ligament (PDL) during retraction of the maxillary canine. Materials and methods: A geometric model of the left hemi-jaw was created from computed tomography scan images of a dry human skull and loads were administered during distalization movement of the canine. Three trials were performed: (1) without corticotomy, (2) box-shaped corticotomy and perforations in the cortical bone of the canine (CVC) and (3) CVC and circularshaped corticotomy in the cortical bone of the edentulous space of the first premolar. Results: There was no difference in stress distribution among the different corticotomy formats. Conclusion: Different corticotomy formats used to accelerate orthodontic tooth movement did not affect stress distribution in the PDL during canine retraction.