Effect of micro-osteoperforations on external apical root resorption: A randomized controlled trial

Area of Science:

• Orthodontics
• Dental Research
• Periodontology

Background:

• External apical root resorption (EARR) is a common side effect of orthodontic treatment.
• Micro-osteoperforations (MOPs) are proposed to accelerate tooth movement.
• The impact of MOPs on EARR during initial alignment requires investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effect of MOPs on EARR during the initial alignment phase in patients with maxillary anterior crowding.
• To compare EARR in patients receiving MOPs adjunctive therapy versus those receiving fixed appliances only.

Main Methods:

• Thirty patients with moderate maxillary anterior crowding undergoing extraction-based fixed appliance treatment were enrolled.
• Patients were randomized into two groups: MOPs (n=15) and control (n=15).
• EARR was assessed using periapical radiographs at baseline and six months, with data analyzed using descriptive statistics and ANOVA.

Main Results:

• No statistically significant difference in EARR was observed between the MOPs group (MD = 0.13 mm) and the control group (MD = 0.14 mm) after six months (p > 0.05).
• The majority of roots in both groups exhibited mild resorption (MOPs: 42.86%, Control: 52.38%).
• Moderate resorption was observed in less than 8% of roots in both groups.

Conclusions:

• Adjunctive MOPs therapy for accelerating orthodontic tooth movement does not increase EARR during the initial alignment phase.
• MOPs appear safe concerning EARR in patients with moderate maxillary anterior crowding.
• The findings suggest MOPs can be considered without exacerbating root resorption concerns.