ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate the influence of three different inclinations of the incisal edge of Planas direct tracks (PDTs) on the upper deciduous incisors (15, 30, and 45 degrees) through simulations using the finite-elements method. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A three-dimensional virtual model of tooth 51 was elaborated by using the Rhinoceros computer-aided design (CAD) software. A mesh was constructed by using the Patran software, and the evaluations were processed by using the ANSYS 15.0 software. The geometry of the elements used consisted of a triangular-base tetrahedron composed of 2,167,386 elements and 3,012,995 nodal points. RESULTS: Progressive alterations of proportional intensity and distribution were seen in the areas of tension on the dentoalveolar structures, with increasing inclination of the edge of the PDT. The tractive contact tensions were seen to be concentrated in the vestibular apical thirds and palatine cervical thirds, while the compressive contact tensions were in the palatine apical thirds and vestibular cervical thirds. CONCLUSION: It was concluded that a 30-degree inclination for the PDT was most appropriate for the cases of anterior crossbite in the deciduous dentition. Nevertheless, because this was a laboratory evaluation, clinical criteria and complementary examinations for each case need to be taken into consideration in making therapeutic decisions.
