Clinical applications of mini-implants as orthodontic anchorage and the peri-implant tissue reaction upon loading

Orthodontic tooth treatment depends on anchorage for improved results. There are many different sources of orthodontic anchorage. Segments of teeth or the entire arch have been the most common type of orthodontic anchorage. But in challenging situations, orthodontists frequently need extra-dental supplements of anchorage such as headgear, face mask, and intermaxillary elastics. Most of them require the patient's compliance. Recently, temporary mini-implants placed within the bone tissue have been used as orthodontic anchorage. It has been proven in many studies and case reports that the mini-implant is a very reliable anchorage source clinically and histologically. The purpose of this article is to introduce the basic clinical application of mini-implants as orthodontic anchorage and to discuss basic concepts about the tissue reaction of peri-implant bone upon placement and loading either from orthodontic mechanics and/or function in the orthodontic treatment of the patients. It is possible for mini-implants to supply absolute anchorage even though they may move slightly within the bone tissue without losing clinical stability. The primary application of mini-implants as orthodontic anchorage will be cases that need absolute anchorage for desired tooth movement.