The photoelasticity method in orthodontic research: a scope review

ABSTRACT Objective To systematically map the research carried out in the area of Orthodontics with the application of the photoelasticity method Methods Studies reporting experiments that used the photoelasticity method as an instrument to assess stresses produced by any type of craniofacial orthopedic or orthodontic device were included. Searches were performed in the following databases: Medline, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials Literatura Latino-Americana e do Caribe em Ciências da Saúde, ISI Web of Science, and ProQuest Dissertations & Theses Global. The date of the last search was May 2024, where reviewers independently selected and extracted data from the included studies using standardized forms, and assessed their risk of bias, with the application of the Appraisal for Cross-Sectional Studies tool. Results 33 studies were included in the review. The photoelasticity method proved to be very versatile, since it was used to analyze various types of orthodontic mechanics and orthopedic appliances in different scenarios. The selected manuscripts presented insufficient or unclear reports, especially in relation to the process of producing the models and the analysis of the results. Conclusion This method has been used in several areas of Dentistry, particularly as an adjuvant in orthodontics, offering a fast and effective way to assess stress distribution and orthodontic mechanics in real time. Further studies are encouraged to explore new orthodontic mechanics and document the method’s processes in detail.