Molar distalization with a partially integrated mini-implant to correct unilateral Class II malocclusion

This article illustrates a new treatment system combining segmented wire and osseointegrated mini-implants for molar distalization without complex appliances. The procedures, advantages, efficacy, and indications for this method are discussed. Two patients whose treatment plans included distal molar movement and orthodontic mini-implant treatment were recruited. One patient required 1 molar to be uprighted, and the other needed molar distalization to regain space lost for the missing maxillary right second premolar. C-implants (diameter, 1.8 mm; length, 8.5 mm) were placed and, after 4 weeks of healing, were used as direct anchorage and indirect anchorage simultaneously for correcting the asymmetric Class II molar relationship. Few orthodontic attachments were necessary, and the teeth moved rapidly to the planned positions without detrimental effects on the occlusion. The combination of segmented archwires, minimum bonded attachments, and a partially osteointegrated mini-implant (C-implant) was a simple and effective treatment choice in distalization treatment.