Orthodontic Force

From a clinical point of view, the optimum orthodontic force has the following characteristics:

• Produce rapid tooth movement.
• Minimal patient discomfort.
• The lag phase of tooth movement is minimal.
• No marked mobility of the teeth being moved.

Efficiency vs. Duration of Force

The graph shows that almost 24 hours is needed for 100% efficiency and wearing 12 hours/day reduces the efficiency to 50%. Problems ensue when patients wear aligners less than full-time and continue to advance to the next aligner with less than the desired amount of movement. This is a major reason for non-fit issues.

• Optimum orthodontic force should be sustained.
• The threshold of 6 hours before the cellular activity is initiated.
• Most efficient movement with 24 hrs/day