[Improvement of mini-implant stability in orthodontics]

Orthodontists are continuing to increase the use of mini-implants as a source of skeletal anchorage. However, the relatively high 16.4% rate of their failures remains a problem. An analysis of articles in the literature on the loss of mini-implants shows that larger size anchorage screws and plates inserted in the anterior and median regions of the hard palate are highly stable and, accordingly, contribute to a high rate of optimum orthodontic outcomes. It is the reliability of the mini-implant/skeletal structure couple that is the principal factor in this success. With mini-implants whose heads possess internal threads, orthodontists can attach different types of stable, screwed-in abutments. And with long plates with specifically designed perforations splinting two mini-implants together, orthodontists can further increase the stability of this artificial anchorage. By employing a system with pre-fabricated components orthodontists can quickly create skeletal anchorage adaptable to the mechanics of different techniques.