Force systems from orthodontic appliances: an analytical and experimental comparison.

Experimental data is compared with the simulated displacements from a computer program for the clinical activations of two separate orthodontic appliances undergoing a total of four separate loading conditions. Good agreement is shown over the entire range of activation. Suggestions for future strengthening of both the analytical and the experimental methods are given. An interactive design graphics system is shown to be imminently available to the research orthodontist.