Average interradicular sites for miniscrew insertion: should dental crowding be considered?

Area of Science:

• Orthodontics
• Dental Implantology
• Radiology

Background:

• Miniscrews are crucial for orthodontic anchorage.
• Identifying optimal placement sites covered by attached gingiva is essential for successful insertion.
• The influence of dental crowding on interradicular space availability requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To create a map of interradicular spaces suitable for miniscrew placement.
• To determine if dental crowding correlates with the availability of these spaces.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of panoramic radiographs and digital models from 40 patients.
• Measurement of interradicular spaces on radiographs.
• Assessment of tooth size-arch length discrepancy using digital models.

Main Results:

• Optimal mandibular sites: between second molars and first premolars.
• Optimal maxillary sites: between first molars and second premolars, canines and lateral incisors, and central incisors.
• Crowding significantly impacts interradicular spaces between maxillary canines/lateral incisors and mandibular first/second premolars.

Conclusions:

• A general map of interradicular sites can guide initial orthodontic treatment planning for miniscrew insertion.
• Clinicians must account for the degree of dental crowding, as it can alter available space.
• Individualized radiographic assessment remains critical for precise miniscrew placement.