Abstract: Objective To analyze the difference of extrusion and intrusion performance between lingual and labial brackets as well as the influence pattern of arch wires with different materials and sizes. Methods The three-dimensional (3D) finite element models of lingual and labial brackets from the right upper canine to the left upper canine were constructed, including three kinds of materials (stainless steel, beta-titanium and nickel-titanium) and two sizes (0.43 mm × 0.64 mm, 0.41 mm × 0.64 mm) of arch wires, so as to compare and analyze their mechanical properties after the extrusion and intrusion load on the left maxillary central incisor with displacement of 1 mm. Results With the increase of displacement, force moment of both lingual and labial brackets gradually increased in each operating condition. Under the same displacement, the intrusion force moment of the lingual orthodontic bracket was about 3 to 4 times of the labial bracket and the extrusion force moment was about 2 to 3 times. Force moments of lingual and labial brackets was affected by the characteristics of arch wires. The effect of arch wire dimension was less than the type of wire alloy. The synergic effect of the size and material was the biggest. Conclusions The lingual and labial brackets have multiple relationships in the same displacement, and different dimensions and materials of arch wires will have different mechanical behaviors. In clinical application, dimensions and materials of arch wires of lingual and labial brackets should be adjusted properly according to the required value of force.