The effects of lingual buttons, precision cuts, and patient-specific attachments during maxillary molar distalization with clear aligners: Comparison of finite element analysis

Abstract

This study aimed to analyze the biomechanical effects of the combined use of clear aligners (CA) and auxiliaries (precision cuts, lingual buttons, and patient-specific attachments) on mesial tipping andextrusion of the premolars during maxillary molars distalization. Three-dimensional finite element method was employed to simulate clinical scenarios of CA with different auxiliaries for molar distalization. As such, 200 g of distal force was applied to the microimplants from the notches, lingual buttons, and hooks. Orthodontic tooth movement and the hydrostatic pressure in the periodontal ligament were compared. Adding auxiliaries can provide the maxillary arch anchorage and promote the distal tipping of premolars and retroclination of maxillary incisors. In contrast, this effect was more pronounced in patient-specific attachment applications than in other types of auxiliaries. The independent application of the CA caused mesial tipping and extrusion of the premolar and also caused the incisor proclination. The anchorage loss caused by the CA alone could be alleviated with the assistance of auxiliaries. Notably, patient-specific attachments further reinforce the anchorage of the anterior arch by incorporating anchor teeth as 1 anchorage unit.