Effects of Mandibular Canine Intrusion Obtained Using Cantilever Versus Bone Anchorage: A Comparative Finite Element Study

Background This study was conducted to assess and compare the effects of mandibular canine intrusion obtained using a cantilever having different toe-in bends and with mini-implants using the three-dimensional (3D) finite element method (FEM). Methodology 3D models of the mandibular right quadrant were created using FEM. Brackets and molar tubes were also modeled. In the first model, the mandibular canine intrusion was produced using a cantilever loop with compensatory toe-in bends (0°, 4°, 6°, and 8°). In another model, the intrusion was done using two mini-implants. Force was applied using an elastic chain. The amount of intrusion and the associated labial tipping of canine that occurred in both the models was assessed and compared using FEM analysis. Results The pure intrusion of the canine was produced by the 6° toe-in bend of the cantilever. The labial tipping of the canine was also reduced. The highest amount of periodontal ligament stress was observed around the canine root with a 0° toe-in bend. In the posterior segment, the molar displayed a slight tendency for extrusion and distal crown tipping. Conclusions The intrusion mechanics using a cantilever simulated in this study may achieve pure mandibular canine intrusion with minimal labial tipping when a compensatory toe-in of 6° is incorporated into the cantilever.