Comparative analysis of two navigation techniques based on augmented reality technology for the orthodontic...

Area of Science:

• Orthodontics
• Dental Implantology
• Surgical Navigation Technologies

Background:

• Accurate placement of orthodontic self-drilling mini-implants is crucial for successful treatment outcomes.
• Conventional freehand techniques (FHT) present challenges in achieving optimal accuracy and avoiding complications.
• Augmented reality (AR) technology offers potential for enhanced surgical precision.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the accuracy and root contact prevalence of conventional freehand technique (FHT) versus two AR-based navigation techniques (AR TOOTH and AR SCREWS) for orthodontic self-drilling mini-implant placement.
• To evaluate the impact of AR navigation on intraoperative complications, specifically root perforations.

Main Methods:

• Two hundred and seven orthodontic self-drilling mini-implants were placed using FHT, AR TOOTH, or AR SCREWS.
• Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) and intraoral scans were used for pre- and post-placement analysis.
• Measurements included coronal entry-point, apical end-point, and angular deviations between planned and actual implant positions.

Main Results:

• Significant differences (p < 0.001) were observed in coronal entry-point, apical end-point, and angular deviations among the groups.
• The AR TOOTH technique showed higher accuracy compared to AR SCREWS and FHT.
• Eight root perforations occurred with FHT, while no perforations were reported with AR navigation techniques.

Conclusions:

• AR navigation techniques significantly enhance the accuracy of orthodontic self-drilling mini-implant placement compared to FHT.
• AR navigation leads to a reduction in intraoperative complications, such as root perforations.
• The AR TOOTH system appears to be the most accurate AR navigation method evaluated.