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CBCT (cone beam computed tomography) is an imaging investigation that provides three-dimensional (3D) images of craniofacial structures. The purpose of this study is to determine the mechanical behavior of an orthodontic system where the lingual treatment technique was used in a 25-year-old female patient from whom a set of CBCT scans was used. CBCT images were processed through software programs such as Invesalius, Geomagic, and Solid Works, to create models containing virtual solids. These models were then imported into Ansys Workbench 2019 R3 (a finite element method software program) for successive simulations to generate displacement maps, deformations, stress distributions, and diagrams. We observed that in the lingual technique, the lowest force occurring on the maxillary teeth is at 1.1, while the highest force appears at 2.3. In the mandible, the lowest force occurs at 4.6, and the highest force at 3.1. The values of the forces and the results of the finite element method can represent a basis for the innovation of new orthodontic springs and also of bracket elements. Thus, by using new technologies, orthodontic practice can be significantly improved for the benefit of patients. Other virtual methods and techniques can be used in future studies, including the application of virtual reality for orthodontic diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is a modern imaging method with applicability in orthodontics. In recent years, there has been an increasing trend in the use of ceramic brackets. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of bonding metallic and ceramic brackets on tooth enamel, using optical coherence tomography. For this purpose, 20 permanent teeth we bonded and were subsequently debonded using a side cutter or anterior bracket removal pliers. Using the OCT technique, the enamel, the amount of adhesive remaining and the bracket fragments remaining on the tooth surface were analyzed following the debonding procedure. It was demonstrated that enamel cracks were present only in the samples bonded with ceramic brackets. At the same time, it was noted that the type of pliers did not affect the incidence and extent of damage to the enamel. The type of debonding technique (using the side cutter or the anterior removal pliers) used did not markedly affect the amount of adhesive remaining on the teeth. Thus, as demonstrated herein, by analyzing the enamel structure through the use of OCT, the quality of the processes and the materials used for manufacturing brackets can be increased. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]