OBJECTIVE This finite element study was conducted to calculate the distribution of stresses in the periodontal ligament when various orthodontic forces were applied, with emphasis on the effect on root apex. METHODS An in vitro finite element method was used to construct a three-dimensional finite element model of a maxillary central incisor, its periodontal ligament and alveolar bone was constructed on the basis of average anatomic morphology. To this model, five types of orthodontic forces namely tipping, bodily movement, intrusion, extrusion and rotations were applied at various points on the crown of the tooth model. After the application of the forces, initial stress and initial displacements of the periodontal ligament were evaluated. The principal stress obtained on the periodontal ligament due to various orthodontic loadings on the maxillary central incisor was analyzed using ANSYS 10 finite element software. RESULTS It showed that the greatest amount of relative stress at the apex of maxillary central incisor occurred with intrusion, extrusion and rotation. Bodily movement and tipping forces produce stress concentrated at the alveolar crest and not at the root apex. CONCLUSIONS Clinical implications of this study suggest that if the clinician is concerned about placing heavy stresses on the root apex, then vertical and rotational forces must be applied with caution. CONCLUSIONS If heavy stresses are to be placed on the root apex, then vertical and rotational forces must be applied with caution during orthodontic therapy.