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Correlation between miniscrew stability and bone mineral density in orthodontic patients
Rodrigo César Santiago1, Fernanda Oliveira de Paula, Marcelo Reis Fraga
1Department of Orthodontics and Pediatrics, Juiz de Fora Federal University, Juiz de Fora, Brazil.
Summary
Titanium miniscrews demonstrate excellent clinical and radiographic stability for orthodontic anchorage during maxillary canine retraction. Optimal surgical technique and patient hygiene are crucial for successful outcomes with this anchorage system.
Area of Science:
- Orthodontics
- Biomaterials
- Dental Implantology
Background:
- Titanium miniscrews are increasingly used for orthodontic anchorage.
- Assessing their clinical and radiographic stability is essential for treatment success.
- Bone quality assessment is critical for predictable miniscrew placement.
Purpose of the Study:
- To correlate clinical and radiographic stability of titanium miniscrews during maxillary canine retraction.
- To evaluate the bone quality at miniscrew insertion sites.
- To determine the success rate of miniscrews as orthodontic anchorage.
Main Methods:
- Thirty titanium miniscrews were placed in 15 patients for orthodontic anchorage.
- Orthodontic loads were applied immediately after placement.
- Bone quality was assessed using multi-slice computed tomography.
- Clinical and radiographic stability were evaluated over 90 days.
Main Results:
- Bone mineral density (BMD) values were within the normal range, often near maximum values.
- A 100% clinical success rate was observed, with 28 of 30 miniscrews remaining stable.
- No statistically significant changes in cephalometric measurements indicated miniscrew stability.
- Some gingival inflammation occurred, necessitating the removal of two miniscrews.
Conclusions:
- Maxillary regions between second premolars and first molars are suitable for miniscrew placement.
- Miniscrew placement in these regions is safe regarding bone quality for the initial 90 days.
- Good surgical technique, planning, inflammation control, and hygiene are vital for successful miniscrew anchorage.
