Occlusal Plane Steepness and Profile Change Following TAD-Based One-Step Retraction on Four-Unit Extraction Cases: A...

Area of Science:

• Orthodontics
• Cephalometrics
• Maxillofacial Surgery

Background:

• Complex orthodontic cases are increasingly challenging due to advanced technology and patient awareness.
• Evaluating treatment outcomes requires assessing dental, skeletal, and soft tissue parameters.
• Understanding the correlation between occlusal plane steepness and other cephalometric measurements is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the impact of orthodontic treatment on occlusal plane orientation.
• To evaluate changes in dental, skeletal, and soft tissue parameters post-treatment.
• To identify correlations between occlusal plane steepness and other cephalometric variables.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective study of 40 cephalometric analyses (20 pre- and 20 post-treatment).
• Patients underwent four-unit extractions with one-step retraction using temporary anchorage devices (TADs).
• Treatment utilized the McLaughlin-Bennett-Trevisi (MBT) prescription with 22-slot brackets.

Main Results:

• Occlusal plane canting remained stable (6.31° to 7.55°).
• Significant reductions observed in soft tissue cephalometric measurements, including lip-to-E-line relationships and angle of convexity.
• Frankfort mandibular angle and upper incisor display were significantly associated with profile changes and occlusal plane steepness.

Conclusions:

• The MBT prescription combined with TAD-based retraction is effective for managing complex orthodontic cases.
• Frankfort mandibular angle and upper incisor display are significant predictors of profile changes related to occlusal plane steepness.
• This treatment approach optimizes dental, skeletal, and soft tissue outcomes.