Orthodontic Research Today is a free monthly online journal that collates and summarizes the latest research about Orthodontic, including details on braces, retainers, treatment.

Mini- and Micro-screws for Temporary Skeletal Anchorage in Orthodontic Therapy.

Berens A, Wiechmann D, Dempf R

Private Practice of Oral, Maxillo-facial Surgery, Hannover, Germany.

OBJECTIVE: Mini- and micro-screws are of increasing interest in orthodontic therapy in cases where maximum anchorage is requested. In this study we aimed to identify the criteria that influence the clinical success of micro-implants. MATERIAL AND METHODS: 239 micro-implants were inserted for skeletal anchorage in 85 patients undergoing orthodontic therapy. The survival rates of the first 133 implants were analyzed and those results were later applied in treating subsequent patients. RESULTS: In so doing, we were able to reduce the loss rate from 23% to 5%. Using thicker implants on the labial side of the lower jaw and the lingual side of the upper jaw was an important factor in reducing failure rates. We found the lower jaw's lingual side to be an inadequate region for inserting micro-implants. Thinner micro-implants were selected for the upper jaw's labial side. CONCLUSION: By following these guidelines, practitioners may find mini- and micro-screws to offer reliable orthodontic support.

Published 24 November 2006 in J Orofac Orthop, 67(6): 450-458.
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