Analytically determined mechanical properties of, and models for the periodontal ligament: Critical review of literature

The discrepancies highlight the need for further research into determining what the key factors that contribute to tooth movement are, their correlations and their degree of impact. Despite the PDL's definitive role in orthodontic tooth movement, proposed models of the PDL's mechanical behaviour thus far have been unsatisfactorily inadequate. Hence, there is a need to develop a robust PDL model that more accurately simulates the PDL's biomechanical response to orthodontic loads. Better understanding of the PDL's biomechanical behaviour under physiologic and traumatic loading conditions might enhance the understanding of the PDL's biologic reaction in health and disease. Providing a greater insight into the response of the PDL would be instrumental to orthodontists and engineers for designing more predictable, and therefore more efficacious, orthodontic appliances.