Application of the orthodontic measurement and simulation system (OMSS) in orthodontics

Abstract

An orthodontic measurement and simulation system (OMSS) is introduced. The major component of the system consists of two force-moment sensors capable of measuring forces and moments in all three planes of space simultaneously. The two sensors are mounted on motor-driven positioning tables with full three-dimensional mobility. All mechanical components are built in a temperature-controlled chamber. A control programme executed by a personal computer performs various types of measurement which can be classified as absolute measurements (e.g. force-deflection diagrams) and simulations of orthodontic tooth movement. By using the OMSS any orthodontic problem at the level of a two-tooth model can be analysed statically and dynamically. Besides other applications, the study evaluates three mechanical systems available for uprighting molars, namely a straight wire, a conventional uprighting spring, and a modified Burstone uprighting spring. It was found that the force systems produced by the straight wire and by the conventional uprighting spring showed a severe extrusive force component which may lead to occlusal trauma. The uprighting performance of the straight wire was inadequate. The conventional uprighting spring produced a large uprighting moment (17.8 Nmm), but also a strong lingual tipping moment (1.5 Nmm). The modified Burstone loop showed the best static and dynamic performance. It produced a force system with substantial uprighting moments in both the sagittal (11.6 Nmm) and frontal plane (4.2 Nmm). A slight intrusive force (0.09 N) might prevent the development of occlusal trauma during treatment. However, concern should be addressed to the fact that intra-oral adjustment of this uprighting spring is difficult because of its high susceptibility to minor modifications of its geometry.