Finite Element Simulation of Biomechanical Effects on Periodontal Ligaments During Maxillary Arch Expansion with Thermoformed Aligners

Purpose: This paper investigates the biomechanical effect of thermoformed aligners equipped with complementary biomechanical attachments (CBAs) on periodontal ligaments (PDLs) during the expansion process of the maxillary arch. The analysis was conducted using advanced simulations based on the finite element method (FEM). Methods: High-resolution 3D CAD models were created for four tooth types: canine, first premolar, second premolar, and first molar. Additional 3D models were developed for aligners, CBAs, and PDLs. These were integrated into a comprehensive FEM model to simulate clinical rehabilitation scenarios. Validation was achieved through comparative analysis with empirical medical data. Results: The FEM simulations revealed the following: for canine, the displacement was 0.134 mm with a maximum stress of 4.822 KPa in the amelocemental junction. For the first premolar, the displacement was 0.132 mm at a maximum stress of 3.273 KPa in the amelocemental junction. The second premolar had a displacement of 0.129 mm and a stress of 1.358 KPa at 1 mm from the amelocemental junction; and first molar had a displacement of 0.124 mm and a maximum stress of 2.440 KPa. Conclusions: The inclusion of CBAs significantly reduced tooth tipping during maxillary arch expansion. Among the models tested, the vestibular CBA demonstrated superior performance, delivering optimal tooth movement when combined with thermoformed aligners. Significance: FEM techniques provide a robust and cost-effective alternative to in vivo experimentation, offering precise and reliable insights into the biomechanical efficacy of CBAs in thermoformed aligners. This approach minimizes experimental variability and accelerates the evaluation of innovative orthodontic configurations.