This finite element study was conducted to calculate the distribution of stresses on root surfaces when a orthodontic force of 2N was applied at different degrees namely 0 degree, 30 degree and 45 degree to the horizontal plane. An in-vitro finite element method was used to construct a three dimensional finite element model of a mandibular arch (without first premolars). Mechanical properties like Young's modulus of elasticity and Poisson's ratio were assigned to the model. To this model an orthodontic force was applied at various degrees on the crown of the tooth model. After the application...

Functional appliances are considered to be primarily orthopedic tools to influence the facial skeleton of the growing child in the condylar and sutural areas. All functional appliances take advantage of interaction between mechanical function and morphologic pattern and use common mechanisms of bone turnover, rhythm, activation, resorption, and formation for their action.These effects are produced because of their ability to alter the stomatognathic muscle balance. For growth modification, functional appliances transmit forces (from muscles or viscoelastic stretch of soft tissue) to the...