Comparison of orthodontic clear aligners and fixed appliances for anterior teeth retraction using finite element analysis

Orthodontic clear aligners are utilised in order to correct mal-positioned teeth. The comparative effectiveness of transparent aligners and fixed appliance therapy using finite analysis has not been thoroughly studied. Therefore, it is of interest to evaluate the superiority of clear aligners over fixed orthodontic therapy in anterior tooth retraction using finite element analysis (FEA). A maxillary dentition lacking 1stpremolars and with periodontal ligaments was represented by 3D digital models. A transparent aligner, brackets and archwire were produced in a 3D printed lingual retractor. Five distinct models of clear aligners for maxillary anterior internal retraction were designed and created as part of the study: Model M0-Control, Model M1-Posterior Micro-implant, Model M2-Anterior Micro-implant, Model M3-Palatal Plate, Model M4-Enhanced structure and Model A0- Fixed Appliance. The study result has shown that the crown-root of the central incisor's sagittal displacement varied least in the improved clear aligner Model M 3. Nonetheless, noticeable differences in the patterns of tooth movement were noted between the fixed appliance model and the clear aligner models. The teeth's movement pattern stayed the same in the clear aligner models. Compared to transparent aligner types, the fixed appliance shown greater anterior torque control and improved safety for the posterior anchorage teeth. It has been demonstrated that clear aligners are non-invasive, aesthetically acceptable and effective treatment modality.