Finite-element investigation of the center of resistance of the maxillary dentition

Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the 3-dimensional position of the center of resistance of the 4 maxillary anterior teeth, 6 maxillary anterior teeth, and the full maxillary dentition using 3-dimensional finite element analysis. Methods: Finite element models included the whole upper dentition, periodontal ligament, and alveolar bone. The crowns of the 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 to the teeth. A force of 100 g or 200 g was applied to the wire beam extended from the incisal edge of the upper central incisor, and displacement of teeth was evaluated. The center of resistance was defined as the point where the applied force induced parallel movement. Results: The results of study showed that the center of resistance of the 4 maxillary anterior teeth group, the 6 maxillary anterior teeth group, and the full maxillary dentition group were at 13.5 mm apical and 12.0 mm posterior, 13.5 mm apical and 14.0 mm posterior, and 11.0 mm apical and 26.5 mm posterior to the incisal edge of the upper central incisor, respectively. Conclusions: It is thought that the results from this finite element models will improve the efficiency of orthodontic treatment. (Korean J Orthod 2009;39(2):83-94)