Mandibular molar protraction: A comparison between fixed functional appliances and temporary anchorage devices.

Area of Science:

• Orthodontics
• Dental Mechanics

Background:

• Mandibular molar protraction is a key orthodontic procedure.
• Comparing the efficiency of temporary anchorage devices (TADs) and fixed functional appliances (FFAs) is crucial for optimizing treatment outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the efficiency of TADs and FFAs in mandibular molar protraction.
• To evaluate secondary outcomes including tooth movement type, root resorption, and alveolar bone changes.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective study screened 1050 orthodontic records, selecting 36 patients for analysis.
• Patients were divided into TAD (21 subjects) and FFA (15 subjects) groups.
• Primary outcomes included protraction rate and anchor loss; secondary outcomes assessed tooth movement, root resorption, and bone changes.

Main Results:

• FFAs demonstrated a significantly higher protraction rate (0.83 mm/month) compared to TADs (0.49 mm/month).
• Total treatment duration was shorter with FFAs (34.78 months) versus TADs (47.72 months).
• Alveolar bone width increased in both groups, while height changes varied. FFA failure rate was 50%, TAD failure rate was 33%.

Conclusions:

• Both TADs and FFAs achieve mandibular molar translation with comparable anchorage control.
• FFAs are more efficient for mandibular molar protraction due to faster movement and shorter overall treatment time.