The oral effects of prolonged intermaxillary fixation by interdental eyelet wiring

The oral effects of prolonged intermaxillary fixation were investigated in 106 severely obese patients who had been jaw wired as an aid to weight loss. The principal complications during fixation were episodes of periodontal pain and tooth mobility (40%). After removal of fixation, the principal sequelae were residual periodontal problems (9%) and mandibular limitation (9%). These findings were confirmed in a subgroup of 11 patients who had detailed measurements made of their periodontal index, oral hygiene index and range of jaw movements. These findings were discussed in relation to other methods of management of obesity.