Minor tooth movements using microimplant anchorage: case reports

For the treatment of extruded or tipped molars, various conventional techniques have been used. But those methods may lead to undesirable movement of the anchorage units and lengthen treatment time because of limited tooth-borne anchorage potential. Introduction of microimplants as orthodontic anchorage has expanded treatment possibilities because of their advantages. Some advantages are a less complex surgical procedure, decrease in cost, immediate loading, and their ability to be placed in any area of the alveolar bone. This article will illustrate clinical experiences in patients who were treated with the intrusion of overerupted molars, the up-righting of tilted molars, and other clinical applications for minor tooth movements. Anchorage control was achieved with the surgical insertion of titanium microimplants for immediate loading in the alveolar bone. When needed, minimal fixed appliances were used and orthodontic treatment was completed without any other complications.