Evaluation of three different intra-oral molar distalization techniques with finite element analysis

Introduction and aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the stress values and the tooth displacement amounts that occur in three different types of molar distalization techniques using finite element analysis (FEA). Material and method: In this study, a finite element model was created and three different distalization modalities were modified: Distalization with the palatal conventional Pendulum device, mini-screw supported AMDA distalization device and a distalization mechanic using buccal mini-screw. The stresses and displacement values resulting from the distalization forces applied to molar teeth were examined through finite element analysis. Results: In all three scenarios, it was observed that stress values occurred were within physiological limits and suitable for distalization. The highest Von Mises values occurred in the upper first molar teeth were measured in the region where the force was applied. In the first and second scenarios, the highest Von Mises stress values of the upper first molar teeth were found on palatinal cusps; in the third scenario, the highest Von Mises stress values were found on the buccal cusps of molar teeth and in all scenarios, the lowest Von Mises stress values were found on the buccal root apex of molar teeth. Conclusion: Distobuccal rotation of the upper first molar teeth was occurred during distalization with both the Pendulum and AMDA, mesiobuccal rotation of the upper first molar teeth was occured in the third scenario. Upper first molars moved more parallel with AMDA compared to the other scenarios. In the distalization with buccal mini-screw showed more molar extrusion compared to the other scenarios. Key words: Molar distalization, Finite element analysis, Pendulum, AMDA, Buccal