Use of zygomatic anchors during rapid canine distalization: a preliminary case report

Rapid canine distalization is a technique involving periodontal ligament distraction. The primary aim of this technique is to distalize the canines without anchorage loss and to shorten the duration of orthodontic treatment. After the rapid canine distalization, the healing process of the periodontal ligament is similar to rapid palatal expansion and requires a consolidation period. The long consolidation period of the technique conflicts with the second aim. Skeletal anchorage systems seem to compensate for this conflict because they can be also used for retraction of incisors during consolidation period. This case report presents the orthodontic treatment of a 16-year-old female, who had a bimaxillary retrusion and a dental Class II division I malocclusion. Upper first premolars were extracted and, while the canines were being distalized rapidly by periodontal ligament distraction, the incisors were retracted using a zygomatic anchorage system. The treatment of the patient was completed in five months without any anchorage loss.