Micro-osteoperforations' impact on orthodontic tooth movement rate: Split mouth research

Area of Science:

• Orthodontics
• Periodontology

Background:

• Micro-osteoperforations (MOPs) are a minimally invasive surgical procedure.
• MOPs enhance osteoclastic activity, potentially accelerating tooth movement and reducing orthodontic treatment duration.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of MOPs in accelerating orthodontic canine retraction.
• To assess the impact of MOPs on tooth movement rate, tipping, anchorage loss, and patient comfort.

Main Methods:

• A randomized controlled trial involving 16 participants undergoing fixed orthodontic treatment.
• Maxillary first premolars were extracted, followed by alignment and leveling.
• MOPs were performed on the experimental side of the maxillary arch.
• A 150-gram force was applied using NiTi closed coil springs for canine retraction on both experimental and control sides.
• Tooth movement was measured at 4, 8, and 12 weeks.

Main Results:

• MOPs demonstrated a significant acceleration of orthodontic tooth movement during the initial 4 weeks of canine retraction.
• No increase in tipping, anchorage loss, or patient discomfort was observed with the MOPs technique.

Conclusions:

• Micro-osteoperforations are effective in accelerating the rate of canine retraction in the early stages of orthodontic treatment.
• MOPs offer a safe and efficient adjunct to fixed orthodontic therapy, without adverse effects.