Temporary anchorage devices in orthodontics: a bibliometric analysis of the 50 most-cited articles from 2012 to 2022

OBJECTIVES

To identify and analyze the 50 most cited articles on temporary anchorage devices (TADs) and investigate the achievement and development of scientific research about the topic through a bibliometric analysis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

On August 22, 2022, a computerized database search was performed to detect papers published in the scientific literature about TADs from 2012 to 2022. Metrics data were identified using the Incites Journal Citation Reports (Clarivate Analytics) data set. The Scopus database was used to obtain information on the authors' affiliations, country of origin, and h-index. Key words were automatically harvested from the selected articles to implement the visualized analysis.

RESULTS

From a total of 1858 papers screened by searching the database, a list of the top 50 most cited articles was created. The total number of citations collected by the 50 most cited articles in TADs was 2380. Among the 50 most cited articles on TADs, 38 were original research papers (76.0%) and 12 were reviews (24.0%). As shown by the key word-network analysis, Orthodontic anchorage procedure was identified as the larger node.

CONCLUSIONS

Findings of this bibliometric study showed an increasing number of citations for papers on TADs, accompanied by a simultaneous rise in scientific interest in this topic in the past decade. The present work identifies the most influential articles, emphasizing the journals, the authors, and the topics addressed.

Comparison of mechanical stability of mini-screws with resorbable blasting media and micro-arc oxidation surface treatments under orthodontic forces: An in vitro biomechanical study

INTRODUCTION

The aim of this study was to compare the primary stability of mini-screws with different surface treatments such as resorbable blasting media (RBM) and micro-arc oxidation (MAO) under in vitro orthodontic forces.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Thirty-six self-drilling TiAl6V4-ELI grade 23 titanium alloy 1.6×8mm mini-screws were inserted into polyurethane foam blocks and divided into three groups according to surface properties: machine surface (MS), RBM-treated, and MAO-treated. An orthodontic force of 150g was applied to the mini-screws using NiTi coils. Maximum insertion torque (MIT) and maximum removal torque (MRT) were measured with a digital torque screwdriver during insertion and removal. For each mini-screw, stability measurements were made with the Periotest M device at day 0 and weeks 1, 2, 4, 8, and 12.

RESULTS

Significant differences in MIT were observed between all groups in pairwise comparisons (P<0.001) with the highest value in the MAO-treated group and the lowest in the MS group. The mean MRT values differed in all three groups (P=0.001). In pairwise comparisons of MRT, only the difference between MS group and RBM-treated group was significant. The highest value was observed in the RBM-treated group, while the lowest value was observed in the MS group. Periotest values were significantly higher in the MAO-treated group than the RBM-treated group at weeks 8 and 12. A positive significant correlation was found between MIT and MRT in all groups. No significant correlation was found between MIT, MRT and Periotest values in all groups.

CONCLUSION

RBM-treated group was significantly higher than the MS group in MIT and MRT values. According to Periotest values, RBM-treated group was found to be significantly more stable than the MAO-treated group at weeks 8 and 12. Therefore, RBM surface treatment was found to be more favourable than other surfaces to increase success rate in clinical applications.

Comparative analysis of two navigation techniques based on augmented reality technology for the orthodontic mini-implants placement

To analyze and compare the accuracy and root contact prevalence, comparing a conventional freehand technique and two navigation techniques based on augmented reality technology for the orthodontic self-drilling mini-implants placement. Methods Two hundred and seven orthodontic self-drilling mini-implants were placed using either a conventional freehand technique (FHT) and two navigation techniques based on augmented reality technology (AR TOOTH and AR SCREWS). Accuracy across different dental sectors was also analyzed. CBCT and intraoral scans were taken both prior to and following orthodontic self-drilling mini-implants placement. The deviation angle and horizontal were then analyzed; these measurements were taken at the coronal entry point and apical endpoint between the planned and performed orthodontic self-drilling mini-implants. In addition, any complications resulting from mini-implant placement, such as spot perforations, were also analyzed across all dental sectors.Results The statistical analysis showed significant differences between study groups with regard to the coronal entry-point (p < 0.001), apical end-point(p < 0.001) and angular deviations (p < 0.001). Furthermore, statistically significant differences were shown between the orthodontic self-drilling mini-implants placement site at the coronal entry-point (p < 0.0001) and apical end-point (p < 0.001). Additionally, eight root perforations were observed in the FHT group, while there were no root perforations in the two navigation techniques based on augmented reality technology.Conclusions The navigation techniques based on augmented reality technology has an effect on the accuracy of orthodontic self-drilling mini-implants placement and results in fewer intraoperative complications, comparing to the conventional free-hand technique. The AR TOOTH augmented reality technique showed more accurate results between planned and placed orthodontic self-drilling mini-implants, comparing to the AR SCREWS and conventional free-hand techniques. The navigation techniques based on augmented reality technology showed fewer intraoperative complications, comparing to the conventional free-hand technique.

Accuracy of digital workflow for placing orthodontic miniscrews using generic and licensed open systems. A 3d imaging analysis of non-native .stl files for guided protocols

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to assess the accuracy of digital workflow for guided insertion of miniscrews in the anterior palate using restorative implant dentistry software and licensed software for orthodontic applications.

METHODS

Twenty subjects (8 males, 12 females, mean age = 16.7 ± 2.1 years) were prospectively selected to receive guided insertion of bicortical palatal miniscrews. Virtual planning was performed using restorative implant dentistry software (Blue Sky Plan*, version 4.7) (group 1 = 10 subjects) and licensed orthodontic software (Dolphin Imaging Software, version 11.0) (group 2 = 10 subjects). A specific 3D Imaging technology was applied to permit the registration of the planned and achieved position of the miniscrews based on the superimposition of maxillary models. The angular deviation (accuracy error) between the planned and the achieved positions of the miniscrews were recorded. Independent Student's test was used with statistical significance set at p value < 0.05.

RESULTS

The mean accuracy error recorded in group 1 was 7.15° ± 1.09 (right side) and 6.19 ± 0.80 (left side) while the mean error in group 2 was 6.74° ± 1.23 (right side) and 5.79 ± 0.95 (left side). No significant differences were recorded between the two groups (p > 0.05); instead, miniscrews placed on the right side were almost one degree higher than the left side (p < 0.05) in both groups.

CONCLUSIONS

The clinical accuracy error was similar when using generic and licensed orthodontic software for guided systems.

Airway dimensional changes following bone anchored maxillary protraction: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

The introduction of skeletal anchorage utilized for maxillary protraction with a face mask or class III elastics has been developed for the management of class III malocclusions with minimal dental effect. The objective of the present review was to evaluate the current evidence regarding airway dimensional changes following bone-anchored maxillary protraction. A search was conducted by two authors (S.A & B.A) in the following databases: MEDLINE via PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Scopus, Google Scholar and Open Grey; besides a hand search in references of selected articles and developing a search alert in electronic databases. Selection criteria comprised randomized as well as prospective clinical trials evaluating airway dimensional changes following bone-anchored maxillary protraction. Relevant data were extracted after studies retrieval and selection. The risk of bias was thereafter evaluated using the revised RoB 2 tool for randomized clinical trials and the ROBINS-I tool was used for non-randomized clinical trials. The quality of studies was assessed using the modified Jadad score. After examining (eligibility) full-text articles, four clinical trials were ultimately included. These studies evaluated the airway dimensional changes, following bone-anchored maxillary protraction in comparison to different control study groups. Based on the available evidence, all the bone-anchored maxillary protraction devices used in the eligible studies in the present systematic review resulted in an improvement in the airway dimensions. However, due to the few numbers of studies available and the guarded evidence due to the low quality of evidence of three out of four included articles, there is no strong evidence to support a significant increase in the airway dimensions following bone-anchored maxillary protraction. Therefore, there is a need for more randomized controlled clinical trials with similar bone-anchored protraction devices and similar assessment methods for more valid comparisons, excluding any confounding factors, on airway dimensional changes.

Mini-implant assisted posterior intrusion: A quantification of anterior bite closure in nongrowing subjects

INTRODUCTION

This study aimed to identify the vertical radiographic changes in nongrowing patients after treatment of anterior open bites (AOBs) using mini-implant assisted intrusion and to provide a predictive model to quantify the achievable intrusion.

METHODS

This retrospective radiographic study evaluated the dentoskeletal changes in adults using orthodontic mini-implants in 53 treated patients with AOB. Radiographs before and after posterior intrusion were utilized to evaluate the associated changes. Conventional cephalometric analyses provided data for assessment. A paired t test was used to identify significant changes. A regression model (best subsets selection algorithm) was generated to quantify the relationship between mini-implant-assisted intrusion and the resultant change in overbite. A matched, untreated control sample was used for comparison.

RESULTS

One hundred percent of AOBs were corrected using mini-implant-assisted intrusion of the maxillary molars. The overbite increased by an average of 3.6 mm. The average amount of maxillary first molar intrusion was 2.67 mm. The mandibular first molar moved an average of 1.93 mm closer to the palatal plane because of an average clockwise mandibular rotation of 0.78°. The occlusal plane steepened by an average of 3.95°. If all other inputs are held constant, 1 mm of intrusion of the maxillary first molar results in a 0.86 mm increase in overbite.

CONCLUSIONS

Mini-implant-assisted intrusion successfully treated AOB in adults with significant dentoalveolar but no significant skeletal changes. An average of 2.67 mm of intrusion of the maxillary first molars is achievable with this method showing that 1 mm of intrusion of the maxillary first molar increased overbite by 0.86 mm. Longer periods of intrusion resulted in greater amounts of bite closure.

Rate of upper incisor retraction in Class II division 1 patients managed with palatal versus buccal miniscrew supported segmental orthodontics: Randomized parallel clinical trial

OBJECTIVE

This study was conducted to compare maxillary incisor retraction rates using buccal orthodontics with segmented arch approach supported by a buccal or palatal mini-screw in non-growing Class II Division 1 patients during a 3-month period.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

All patients between September 2018 and December 2021 with following criteria were included: non-growing class II division 1 protrusion, indication for premolar extraction, no or little crowding, normal overbite, no previous orthodontic treatment, no systematic disease, good oral hygiene, no periodontal problems or oral habits. Mini-implant was inserted buccally or palatally between upper second premolar and first molar bilaterally. Incisor retraction was manipulated by a 200-gram force through a nickel-titanium closed-coil spring extended from the mini-implant to the segmental design. Study casts were made before retraction and after every 4 weeks (T0: baseline, T1: 4 weeks, T2, 8 weeks, T3: 12 weeks). A repeated measures ANOVA was performed for total comparison of data (mm of retraction) on 3D casts. A pairwise t test with Bonferroni correction was used for comparison between two experimental periods for the same group. An independent samples t-test was also used for comparison between two groups for the same experimental period.

RESULTS

Of 30 patients meeting the eligibility criteria, only 28 were included with mean age 16±2.5 years. Repeated measures ANOVA revealed significant differences in incisor retraction between the time intervals for both buccal and palatal groups (P=0.001). In addition, the paired-sample t test indicated a significant difference between each time interval for both the buccal and palatal groups (P=0.001), except between T3 and T2 for the palatal group (P=0.09). The independent sample t-test revealed significant differences between the buccal and palatal groups at T1 (Mean: 0.55 [0.355-0.748],=0.001) and T2 (Mean: 1.4 [0.91-1.88], P=0.001); whereas no significant difference was found at T3 (Mean: 1.15 [0.67-1.63], P=0.945).

CONCLUSIONS

Anterior retraction using a segmental palatal model with mini-screws was effective regardless of the buccal or palatal situation of the minivis. Retraction of incisors with palatal miniscrews was significantly faster in the first two months.

Effect of thread depth and thread pitch on the primary stability of miniscrews receiving a torque load : A finite element analysis

PURPOSE

We have been developing a new type of miniscrew to specifically withstand orthodontic torque load. This study aimed to investigate the effect of thread depth and thread pitch on the primary stability of these miniscrews if stressed with torque load.

METHODS

Finite element analysis (FEA) was used to evaluate the primary stability of the miniscrews. For thread depth analysis, the thread depth was set to 0.1-0.4 mm to construct 7 models. For thread pitch analysis, the thread pitch was set to 0.4-1.0 mm to construct another 7 models. A torque load of 6 Nmm was applied to the miniscrew, and the other parameters were kept constant for the analyses. Maximum equivalent stress (Max EQV) of cortical bone and maximum displacement of the miniscrews (Max DM) were the indicators for primary stability of the miniscrew in the 14 models.

RESULTS

In the thread depth analysis, Max DM increased as the miniscrew thread depth increased, while Max EQV was smallest in model 3 (thread depth = 0.2, Max EQV = 8.91 MPa). In the pitch analysis, with an increase of the thread pitch, Max DM generally exhibited a trend to increase, while Max EQV of cortical bone showed a general trend to decrease.

CONCLUSION

Considering the data of Max DM and Max EQV, the most appropriate thread depth and thread pitch of the miniscrews in our model was 0.2 and 0.7 mm, respectively. This knowledge may effectively improve the primary stability of newly developed miniscrews.

Identification of Senescent Cells in Peri-Implantitis and Prevention of Mini-Implant Loss Using Senolytics

Peri-implantitis is a disease that causes the detachment of orthodontic mini-implants. Recently, stress-induced senescent cells have been reported to be involved in various inflammatory diseases. Senescent cell-eliminating drugs, termed "senolytics", can improve the symptoms of such diseases. However, the relationship between peri-implantitis and senescent cells remains unclear. In this study, we evaluated the presence of senescent cells in a rat peri-implantitis model developed with a gum ring. The effect on bone resorption and implant loss was also investigated with and without senolytics (Dasatinib and Quercetin). The number of senescence markers (p19, p21, and p16) was found to increase, and implant detachment occurred in 24 days. After the administration of senolytics, the number of senescence markers decreased and implant detachment was inhibited. This study suggests that senescent cells aggravate peri-implantitis and senolytic administration latently reduces implant loss by inhibiting senescence-related mechanisms.

Minimum volume of infiltrative anesthetic required for pain-free placement of mini-implants: a split-mouth clinical trial

OBJECTIVE

To determine the minimum volume of infiltrative anesthetic required for pain-free mini-implant placement in the maxillary buccal region by comparing the efficacy of 1.0 mL with 0.5 mL of 2% lignocaine with 1:200,000 epinephrine during mini-implant placement.

METHOD AND MATERIALS

This split-mouth study involved 19 healthy patients without systemic disease, recent history of allergy, or medications within the age group of 17 to 28 years belonging to both sexes requiring bilateral buccal mini-implants in the posterior maxilla. Lignocaine 2% with 1:200,000 epinephrine (0.5 mL and 1.0 mL) was randomly injected between the right and left side 30 minutes apart for each consecutive patient. Mini-implants were placed 5 minutes after the administration of the infiltrative anesthetic. The pain response was evaluated during mini-implant placement (T1), and 5 minutes (T2) and 10 minutes (T3) after mini-implant placement on both sides using a pain-rating scale. Descriptive statistics and a factorial repeated-measure analysis of variance were calculated for pain response, sex, and side of the jaw.

RESULTS

At T1, T2, and T3, 1.0 mL of anesthetic had a lesser pain score by 1.00, 1.00, and 0.58, respectively, compared to 0.5 mL, with 95% confidence intervals of 0.43 to 1.57 (P = .001), 0.49 to 1.51 (P = .000), and 0.08 to 1.08 (P = .024), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

1.0 mL of 2% lignocaine with 1:200,000 epinephrine administered submucosally appears to provide better anesthesia than 0.5 mL during and after insertion of mini-implants. This study will help the operator administer the correct volume of infiltrative anesthetic thereby improving pain response, alleviating patient anxiety, and providing a better patient experience during and immediately after mini-implant placement.

Accuracy of palatal orthodontic mini-implants placed by conventionally or CAD/CAM-based surgical guides: a comparative in vitro study

OBJECTIVES

To investigate and compare the transfer accuracy of five different surgical guides (SGs) for the insertion of orthodontic mini-implants (OMIs) in the anterior palate.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Stereolithographic files of 10 maxillary patient models and their corresponding lateral cephalograms were virtually matched and used for planning the position of two parallel OMIs in the paramedian region of the anterior palate. For each patient model, three 3-dimensional (3D)-printed and two conventional SGs were manufactured from different materials, and a total of 96 OMIs were transferred to the anterior palates of the respective 50 molded resin models. The planned (T0) and the actual (T1) OMI positions were analyzed and compared after superimposition of the digitized models. The deviations between the OMI positions in T0 and T1 were described as the distance between the head and the tip, respectively, of each OMI in millimeters and the deviating angle between the OMI axes for each patient and SG.

RESULTS

The conventionally manufactured SGs of Pattern Resin LS (GC Europe N.V., Leuven, Belgium) showed the highest linear and angular transfer accuracy for the insertion of OMIs. The highest deviations were found with the SGs made of IMPRIMO LC Splint (3D-printed; Scheu-Dental, Iserlohn, Germany) and Memosil 2 (conventional SG; Kulzer, Hanau, Germany).

CONCLUSIONS

The 3D-printed SGs did not reach the accuracy of the conventional SGs made of Pattern Resin but may provide sufficient accuracy for palatal OMI placement.

Total arch maxillary distalization using infrazygomatic crest miniscrews in the treatment of Class II malocclusion: a prospective study

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate treatment effects in Class II patients using infrazygomatic crest (IZC) miniscrews (MS).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A prospective sample of 25 adolescents (14 females and 11 males; mean age: 13.6 ± 1.5 years) who underwent maxillary dentition distalization treatment with IZC MSs were recruited. Lateral cephalograms and digital models at the beginning of treatment (T1) and after Class II molar correction (T2) were obtained. To compare cephalometric and digital model changes, paired t-test and Wilcoxon test were used. A significance level of 5% was used.

RESULTS

All patients achieved Class II molar correction over a mean period of 7.7 ± 2.5 months. The IZC MS therapy provided 4 mm of distalization; there was 1.2 mm of intrusion of the first molar with 11.2° distal tipping. The maxillary incisors were retracted 4.7 mm and tipped lingually 13.4°. Overjet and overbite showed a reduction of 3.6 mm and 2.4 mm, respectively. The occlusal plane rotated clockwise 2.8°. The upper lip was retracted by 1 mm and the nasolabial angle increased 5.1°. There was an increase in the interpremolar and intermolar distances.

CONCLUSIONS

Total arch distalization of the maxillary dentition using IZC MS was effective in the treatment of Class II malocclusions.

A novel auxiliary device enhances miniscrew stability under immediate heavy loading simulating orthopedic treatment

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate miniscrew stability and perform a histomorphometric analysis of the bone around the miniscrew under a load corresponding to orthopedic force.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thirty-two miniscrews were implanted into eight rabbit tibias. Auxiliary group rabbits received auxiliary devices with miniscrews (n = 8, 28 days; n = 8, 56 days), and those in the nonauxiliary control group received miniscrews without auxiliary devices (n = 8, 28 days; n = 8, 56 days). Elastics were placed between miniscrews to apply a load of 5 N. Miniscrew stability was evaluated using a Periotest. Bone-to-implant contact (BIC) and spike implantation depth were measured histomorphologically.

RESULTS

Periotest values in the auxiliary group were significantly lower than those in the nonauxiliary group at all time periods. There was no significant difference in BIC between the auxiliary and nonauxiliary groups at 28 or 56 days postimplantation. The implantation spike depth in the auxiliary group was significantly greater at 56 days compared to that at 28 days. Newly formed bone was observed around the spike of the auxiliary device at 56 days.

CONCLUSIONS

The results suggest that the use of miniscrews in conjunction with auxiliary devices provides stable skeletal anchorage, which may be useful in orthopedic treatments.

Bi-maxillary Protrusion: An Orthodontic Management

Bi-maxillary protrusion is a condition with protrusive and proclined upper and lower incisors and the patient is not able to close lips without strain. The presented case reported with the chief complaint of forwardly placed teeth, with skeletal class II malocclusion, and Angle's class I malocclusion with protrusive and forwardly placed upper and lower incisors. The treatment was performed with the extraction of all first premolars and retraction under absolute anchorage. The retraction of upper and lower lips of about 3 mm and 3.5 mm was achieved respectively and the patient was able to close lips without strain. With proper anchorage preparation, bi-maxillary protrusion can be successfully managed orthodontically.

Evaluation of the rate of anterior segment retraction in orthodontic patients with bimaxillary protrusion using friction vs frictionless mechanics

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the effect of friction vs frictionless mechanics on the rate of anterior segment retraction (ASR) in patients with bimaxillary protrusion.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thirty females (18.3 ± 3.7 years) with bimaxillary protrusion were randomly allocated into the friction group, using elastomeric power chains, and the frictionless group, using T-loop springs for ASR. Eligibility criteria included absence of skeletal discrepancies and any systemic diseases or medications, among others. Randomization in a 1:1 ratio was generated by Microsoft Excel. Opaque sealed envelopes were sequentially numbered for allocation concealment. Only blinding of the outcome assessor was applicable. Activations were done every 4 weeks until completion of ASR. The primary outcome was the rate of ASR measured on digital models. Anchorage loss, molar rotation, and pain experienced were also assessed.

RESULTS

Two patients were lost to follow-up. The rate of ASR was 0.68 ± 0.18 mm/mo in the friction group vs 0.88 ± 0.27 mm/mo in the frictionless group, with no significant difference. A significant difference in anchorage loss of 1.63 mm and molar rotation of 7.06° was observed, being higher in the frictionless group. A comparable pain experience associated with both mechanics was reported.

CONCLUSIONS

No difference in the rate of ASR or pain experience was observed between friction and frictionless mechanics. However, extra anchorage measures should be considered when using frictionless mechanics as greater anchorage loss and molar rotations are anticipated.

Skeletal and dentoalveolar effects of class II malocclusion treatment using bi-maxillary skeletal anchorage: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

The goal of this systematic review was to assess the available evidence regarding the skeletal and dentoalveolar effects of bi-maxillary skeletal anchorage devices (BMSADs) used in treating growing class II malocclusion patients.

METHODS

A comprehensive search was conducted on PubMed, Scopus, Science Direct, Web of Science, Cochrane, and LILACS up to November 2021, which was augmented by a manual search. The studies included were clinical trials (RCTs) and/or follow-up observational studies (retrospective and prospective). The outcomes of interest were the skeletal, dentoalveolar, and occlusal treatment-induced changes obtained from pre- and post-cephalometric measurements. The risks of bias of the included studies were assessed using an assessment tool from previous publications.

RESULTS

Out of 742 screened articles, only 4 were eligible and thus included in the qualitative synthesis. They showed a moderate overall risk of bias. The results are presented as mean changes in both the study and control groups. All studies reported retrusion of the maxillary base and advancement of the mandible (meaning reduced ANB angle). Three of the included studies reported an increase in the vertical jaw relation, which was contrary to what the fourth study reported. Three studies reported an increase in the maxillary incisors' inclination or position, while one study reported their retroclination. Proclination of the mandibular incisors happened in two studies, whereas the other two studies reported retroclination. The overjet was reduced in all included studies.

CONCLUSION

Apart from the protrusive effects on the mandible, retrusive effects on the maxilla, and the consequent reduction of the overjet, BMSADs results in inconsistent skeletal and dentoalveolar effects. However, the current evidence is limited due to the variability in the biomechanics of the intermaxillary components, type of anchorage, and comparable groups in the included studies. Further RCTs with more standardized methodologies are highly encouraged.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

BMSADs (using miniscrews or miniplates on both jaws) induces more skeletal than dentoalveolar effects. However, this must be practiced with caution, based on the benefit to risk (surgical insertion) ratio, and the limited evidence available in hand so far. Registration The protocol for this systematic review was registered at the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO, No.: CRD42020199601).

Treatment effects of maxillary protraction with palatal plates vs conventional tooth-borne anchorage in growing patients with Class III malocclusion

INTRODUCTION

Evaluate the treatment effects of maxillary protraction using palatal plates and compare them to those with conventional tooth-borne anchorage in growing patients with Class III malocclusion.

METHODS

Forty patients were divided into 2 groups according to the type of anchorage used: group 1 (n = 20; mean age, 10.5 ± 1.6 years; palatal plates) and group 2 (n = 20; mean age, 10.0 ± 1.2 years; tooth-borne appliances). Lateral cephalograms were taken before and after maxillary protraction. Skeletal, dental, and soft-tissue variables were measured. For statistical analysis, paired and independent t tests were performed.

RESULTS

Group 1 showed maxilla advancement by 2.3 ± 1.0 mm compared with group 2 by 0.9 ± 0.6 mm, and group 2 indicated clockwise rotation of the mandible, but there was no such clockwise rotation in group 1 (P <0.001). Group 1 had a less lingual inclination of the mandibular incisors than group 2 (IMPA, -1.0° ± 3.8° vs -3.8° ± 2.8°; P <0.05). There was no difference in soft-tissue changes between the 2 groups.

CONCLUSIONS

A facemask with palatal plate induced maxillary advancement with less mandibular clockwise rotation and dental movement than conventional tooth-borne anchorage. This modality can be used efficiently for maxillary protraction in growing patients with Class III malocclusion.

Torque control of maxillary anterior teeth with the double J retractor and palatal miniscrews during en masse retraction

A double J retractor (DJR) and palatal miniscrews were used to retract maxillary anterior teeth after failure of buccal posterior miniscrews. The line of action passing through the center of resistance of the maxillary anterior teeth and the moment generated by the palatal miniscrews via torquing springs successfully controlled the overbite and incisor torque during space closure. The DJR and palatal miniscrews work well with labial fixed appliances to address bimaxillary protrusion.

Evaluation of bone depth, cortical bone, and mucosa thickness of palatal posterior supra-alveolar insertion site for miniscrew placement

BACKGROUND

The use of palatal miniscrew offers the possibility to improve the effectiveness of orthodontic expansion devices. Palatal expanders supported by miniscrew can be applied with different clinical protocols. Some authors proposed the use of four palatal miniscrews during miniscrew-supported palatal expansion to maximize skeletal effects in young adults' treatment. However, bone availability decreases in the posterior paramedian palatal regions, making the positioning of the two-posterior paramedian palatal miniscrews challenging, when it is performed avoiding nasal cavities invasion. Some authors proposed miniscrews insertion in a specific region located laterally to the palatal process of the maxillary bone, and apically relatively to the dento-alveolar process. The aim of this study was to evaluate the bone thickness, cortical bone thickness, and mucosae depth of this anatomical site that, in this study, was defined as palatal posterior supra-alveolar insertion site.

RESULTS

The evaluation of bone availability of palatal posterior supra-alveolar insertion site at different antero-posterior levels showed that the maximum amount of total bone thickness was found between the second premolar and the first molar. At this level total bone, thickness is significantly (p < .05) greater compared to the other sagittal sites and it offers on average around 2 mm of extra bone depth for miniscrew placement. Cortical bone thickness is adequate for primary miniscrew stability. Overall, cortical bone thickness considered at different insertion sites showed significant statistically (p < .05) differences. The findings of this study showed that palatal mucosa is particularly thick with average values ranging from 4 to 7 mm, and its extension ultimately affects miniscrew length selection. Palatal mucosa thickness showed no clinically significant differences comparing different sagittal and vertical insertion sites. Data also showed that palatal mucosal thickness slightly significantly increases (p < .05) with the inclination of the insertion axis relative to the occlusal plane. Finally, study findings showed that vertical growth pattern can significantly affect considered outcomes (p < .05).

CONCLUSIONS

Palatal posterior supra-alveolar insertion site is an appropriate site for posterior insertion of palatal miniscrews. Considering high anatomical variation preliminary CBCT evaluation is important to achieve optimal miniscrew placement.