Search Results (175)

Background/Objectives: Growth prediction may be used by the clinical orthodontist in growing individuals for diagnostic purposes and for treatment planning. This process appraises chronological age and determines the degree of skeletal maturity to calculate residual growth. In developmental deviations, overlooking such diagnostic details might culminate in erroneous conclusions, unstable outcomes, recurrence, and treatment failure. The present review aims to systematically present and explain the available means for predicting growth in humans. Traditional, long-known, popular methods are discussed, and modern digital applications are described. Materials and methods: A search on PubMed and the gray literature up to May 2025 produced 69 eligible studies on future maxillofacial growth prediction without any orthodontic intervention. Results: Substantial variability exists in the studies on growth prediction. In young orthodontic patients, the study of the lateral cephalometric radiography and the subsequent calculation of planes and angles remain questionable for diagnosis and treatment planning. Skeletal age assessment is readily accomplished with X-rays of the cervical vertebrae and the hand–wrist region. Computer software is being implemented to improve the reliability of classic methodologies. Metal implants have been used in seminal growth studies. Biochemical methods and electromyography have been suggested for clinical prediction and for research purposes. Conclusions: In young patients, it would be of importance to reach conclusions on future growth with minimal distress to the individual and, also, reduced exposure to ionizing radiation. Nevertheless, the potential for comprehensive prediction is still largely lacking. It could be accomplished in the future by combining established methods with digital technology. Full article

Background: Tooth agenesis, particularly hypodontia, poses a clinical and esthetic challenge in growing patients due to limitations in definitive implant placement before skeletal maturity. Traditional solutions such as removable prostheses or orthodontic space closure often fail to provide adequate long-term stability, function, and tissue preservation. In recent years, orthodontic mini-implants have emerged as a promising interim solution. This narrative review aims to synthesize current clinical evidence on the use of orthodontic mini-implants as temporary prosthetic abutments in children and adolescents with hypodontia or post-traumatic tooth loss. Methods: A literature search was conducted using PubMed and Google Scholar databases, covering studies published between January 2004 and March 2025. Inclusion criteria were clinical reports involving skeletally immature patients with congenital or traumatic tooth loss treated with mini-implants, with mandatory radiographic diagnostics and outcome data. Data extracted included patient demographics, etiology, implant site, imaging, follow-up, complications, and outcomes. A total of 17 studies comprising 42 cases were analyzed and summarized in tabular form. Results: Patients aged 6 to 16 years were treated primarily for agenesis of maxillary lateral or central incisors. The mean follow-up duration was 36.9 months. CBCT was used in 28.6% of cases. Mini-implants demonstrated high clinical success with stable soft tissue contours and preservation of alveolar volume. Complications were reported in 21.4% of cases and included crown debonding, minor infraocclusion, soft tissue irritation, and rare instances of osseointegration. Conclusions: Orthodontic mini-implants may provide a minimally invasive and reversible approach to interim tooth replacement in growing patients. Preliminary evidence suggests favorable outcomes in terms of stability, esthetics, and tissue preservation, but further prospective research is needed to validate their long-term effectiveness and standardize clinical application. Full article

Background/Objectives: The aim of this systematic review was to identify the role of orthodontics in patients undergoing tumor-ablative surgery, in collaboration with maxillofacial prosthodontic rehabilitation in a multidisciplinary fashion. Methods: This systematic review was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines and was registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) database (CRD42024582050). The focused question was constructed using the PICO (participant, intervention, comparison, and outcome) approach. A three-stage search was performed in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science using Medical Subject Heading (MeSH) terms. To assess the risk of bias, the National Institute of Health (NIH) “Quality Assessment Tool for case series/reports” was used. All data was synthesized qualitatively, according to the Synthesis Without Meta-analysis (SWiM) reporting guideline. Results: The initial search yielded 624 articles, of which 22 met the inclusion criteria after screening and eligibility assessment, with most being single-patient case reports and one case series involving 12 patients. The included studies primarily involved tumors in the mandible (64.5%) and maxilla (32.3%). Orthodontic treatment was initiated at various time points, ranging from one month pre-surgery to 19 years post-surgery, primarily utilizing fixed appliances (77.8%). In some studies, orthodontic appliances were used to enhance the stability of maxillofacial prostheses. The results of this study indicate that orthodontic treatment may facilitate prosthetic rehabilitation by improving conditions prior to prosthetic intervention and increasing the retention of the obturator prosthesis. Conclusions: Orthodontic treatment can enhance maxillofacial prosthetic rehabilitation after tumor-ablative surgery by optimizing jaw growth, improving occlusion, and facilitating prosthetic retention or space creation. Further research is needed to establish treatment guidelines. Orthodontic miniscrews may improve temporary prosthesis retention before final implant placement, when indicated. Full article

The objective of the present study was to evaluate and compare the accuracy of the computer-aided static navigation technique (NAV), augmented reality (AR) and freehand placement technique (FHT) for the bicortical orthodontic self-drilling mini-implants for maxillary skeletal expansion (MSE) appliances placed in palate. Material and Methods: A total of 120 bicortical orthodontic self-drilling mini-implants were placed in the palate of ten 3D printed anatomically based polyurethane models of a completely edentulous upper maxilla. The orthodontic mini-implants were randomly assigned to the following placement techniques: (A) computer-aided static navigation technique (n = 40) (NAV), (B) augmented reality device (n = 40) (AR) and (C) conventional freehand technique (n = 40) (FHT). Moreover, two implants were placed in each side of the midpalatal suture in every model according to the digital planification of the expander device. Subsequently, the orthodontic mini-implants were placed and postoperative CBCT scans were performed. Finally, coronal entry-point (mm), apical end-point (mm) and angular deviations (°) were calculated using a t-test. Results: Statistically significant differences were shown at coronal entry-point (p < 0.001), apical end-point (p < 0.001) and angular deviations (p < 0.001) between the three placement techniques of bicortical orthodontic mini-implants. Additionally, statistically significant differences were also shown between the orthodontic mini-implant positions concerning the entry point (p = 0.004) and angular deviation (p = 0.004). Conclusions: The augmented reality placement technique results are more accurate, followed by the computer-aided static navigation technique and the freehand technique for MSE appliances placed in palate. Full article

Background: Canine impaction complicates treatment and prolongs duration, requiring precise localization. CBCT is the gold standard for diagnosis and assessment. However, it involves high radiation exposure and cost. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a combined biomechanical approach for orthodontic traction of impacted maxillary canines (IMCs) and to determine whether intraoral scans (STL files) could replace a final CBCT in assessing canine repositioning. Methods: The sample included 10 patients (7 males and 3 females) with 13 severely displaced IMCs, treated with a protocol combining Invisalign^® aligners, elastics, mini-implants, and sectional wires. In all, 9 IMC were palatally impacted, while 4 were buccally impacted. A representative clinical case is presented to illustrate the biomechanics used in one of the complex cases. Canine movement was evaluated at the cusp and apex through two methods: overlay of pre- and post-treatment CBCTs, and overlay of initial and final STL scans onto the initial CBCT. Results: A Class I canine relationship was successfully achieved in all patients. No statistically significant differences were found between the two measurement methods (p > 0.05). Conclusions: Orthodontic traction of IMC, especially in complex cases, can be achieved using aligners, elastics, mini-implants, and sectional wires. Once the canine crown has erupted and is clinically visible, STL scans overlaid with the initial CBCT can accurately assess the final position of the crown and root. This allows clinicians to avoid a second CBCT in selected cases, reducing patient radiation exposure while maintaining diagnostic accuracy. Full article

The precise planning of orthodontic temporary anchorage devices (TADs) in the anterior maxilla is crucial due to anatomical complexity. This study aimed to evaluate the bone parameters for mini-implant placement using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). A total of 65 patients aged 15–50 years underwent CBCT analysis. Measurements were taken in three anterior regions (between and adjacent to central/lateral incisors and canines) at four vertical levels (2 mm, 4 mm, 6 mm, and 8 mm from the alveolar crest). Parameters included interdental width (IDW), buccopalatal bone depth (BPD), and distances from ideal implant points (IPPs) to adjacent structures. Descriptive statistics included means, standard deviations, confidence intervals, and frequency distributions. Statistical analysis revealed age-related differences, with subjects aged 21–30 showing higher CP-IPP and IDW values, and those aged 15–20 showing higher BPD values. Gender differences were noted in IDW and BPD, but not in CP-IPP. The most favorable IDW (≥3 mm) was observed in regio 1 at level A, while unfavorable values were found in regio 2′ at levels C and D. Positive correlations between IDW and BPD were found in multiple regions and levels. These results may guide safer and more predictable TAD placement. Considering that radiographic analysis forms the basis of this study, future in vivo studies are needed to confirm the practical impact of the proposed measurements. Full article

Orthodontic mini-implants (MIs) are excellent alternative skeletal anchorage devices. Their stability is important for their survival, requiring appropriate torque application during insertion and removal. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the influences of the diameter and brand of MIs on their stability by measuring the maximum insertion and removal torques after they had been aged in a pH 7 artificial saliva for 4 weeks at 37 °C. Methods: Forty Ti6Al4V alloy MIs of two different brands and diameters were divided into four groups. They were placed in artificial bone blocks using the NSK^® Surgic Pro coupled with a digital torque gauge (Centor Touch Star TH^®) to measure the maximum insertion and removal torques. Results: After ageing, the Fatscrew (Fts) MIs were more stable when removed than the white brand (WB) MIs. The WB MIs lost stability over time, while the Fts MIs—especially the 2.0 mm ones—maintained good stability. Conclusions: The significant differences between the tested groups, especially the stability observed in the 2.0 mm Fts MIs compared to the other groups, highlight the importance of brand and diameter size in the effectiveness of MIs. Full article

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have emerged as a promising antimicrobial agent in dentistry due to their distinctive physicochemical characteristics and broad-spectrum biocidal activity. For example, silver nanoparticles can be incorporated into oral hygiene products in preventive dentistry, composite resins in restorative treatment, irrigation solutions in endodontic treatment, membranes for guided tissue regeneration in periodontal treatment, acrylic resins and porcelains in prosthodontic treatment, coatings in dental implant treatment, and brackets and wires in orthodontic treatment. This paper focuses on summarizing the current knowledge on the antimicrobial use of silver nanoparticles in dentistry, highlighting their antimicrobial mechanism and potential applications in clinical treatment. The literature indicates that silver nanoparticles are a promising antimicrobial agent in dentistry. However, there are still many issues including fundamental antibacterial mechanisms that need to be completely elucidated before clinical applications. Full article

This systematic review analyzed the combined use of aligners and orthodontic temporary anchorage devices (TADs) in orthodontic treatment. The aim was to evaluate the effectiveness, benefits, and potential challenges of integrating the use of miniscrews with aligners. This review was conducted according to the PRISMA statement, and the protocol was registered at PROSPERO under the ID CRD42024576712. A comprehensive search on PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science was conducted to identify relevant papers involving patients treated with aligners and TADs, dating from 1 January 2004 to 17 July 2024. The electronic database search identified a total of 458 articles. After eligibility, 14 records were selected for qualitative analysis. The findings suggest that the combination of aligners and miniscrews significantly enhances treatment precision and control, especially in cases requiring complex tooth movements, such as intrusion, extrusion, and distalization. The use of miniscrews allows greater control of movement and stability. The integration of these two techniques presents challenges, such as the need for precise miniscrew placement and potential discomfort during insertion. However, there was high satisfaction due to the aesthetic and comfort benefits of aligners. Further research is desirable to delve deeper into the topic to optimize clinical outcomes. Full article

Background/Objectives: Orthodontic temporary anchorage devices (TADs) in the lateral maxillary region are useful tools for successful orthodontic treatment. Radiological anatomical knowledge is crucial for the successful placement of TADs. The use of cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) is essential for evaluating the relationship between the ideal placement point (IPP) and dental structures, particularly in cases with anatomical limitations. Accordingly, this study aims to assess the anatomical conditions for orthodontic mini-implant (MI) insertion in the posterior maxilla using CBCT as the gold standard. Methods: This retrospective study included 62 patients (37.1% male, 62.9% female) aged 11 to 50 years. CBCT scans (sagittal and axial cross-sections) were used to evaluate interdental bone characteristics in different regions. The evaluated regions were defined as follows: Region 1 (canine and first premolar), Region 2 (first and second premolars), Region 3 (second premolar and first molar), and Region 4 (first and second molars). All parameters were assessed at three predefined levels: A, B, and C, located 4, 3, and 2 mm, respectively, from the alveolar crest. At the aforementioned levels, we performed measurements, such as the interdental width (IDW) in the mesiodistal direction and buccopalatal depth (BPD). The last observation was the relationship between the ideal TAD placement point (IPP) and dental structures, such as contact points (CPs) and cusp tips (C1-cusp of mesial tooth, C2-cusp of distal tooth, in each region). Results: A statistically significant positive correlation was found between the IDW and BPD at Levels A, B, and C in Region 1, while a negative correlation was observed between the IDW and BPD at Level C in Region 2′. The highest percentages of IDW exceeding 3 mm were found in Region 4 at Level A (67.7%), followed by Region 1′ and 2′, both at Level A. The mean interdental width measured at each level on the right and left sides was highest at Level A, exceeding 3 mm, and the width decreased with each successive level. The mean BPD measured at each level on the right and left sides was also highest at Level A. Conclusions: This methodological approach could assist in ensuring precise and efficient implant insertion. Furthermore, it can be concluded that the safe zone for buccal and interdental mini-implant placement is located 4 mm from the alveolar crest at Level A. Also, the CBCT analysis algorithm may serve as a valuable tool for clinicians in determining optimal TAD placement in different dental regions. Full article

Background and Clinical Significance: Dental implants are widely used; however, tooth extraction often results in alveolar bone loss and gingival recession, necessitating bone and connective tissue reconstruction, especially in the esthetic anterior regions. To address these issues, implants are occasionally connected to adjacent teeth, but this remains controversial, as complications (e.g., intrusion of natural teeth) have been observed. This report demonstrates the long-term success of implants replaced after removing maxillary bilateral central incisors and connecting them to lateral incisors with reduced supportive bone due to periodontitis. Case Presentation: A 57-year-old woman with root fractures in maxillary bilateral central incisors, periodontitis, and malocclusion was treated with connecting implants and natural teeth. Bone levels surrounding maxillary bilateral lateral incisors were diminished due to root fractures in adjacent central incisors and periodontitis. After initial periodontal therapy, hopeless maxillary central incisors were extracted, replaced with implants using a digitally simulated surgical guide, and guided bone regeneration and connective tissue grafting were performed. Implants were connected to lateral incisors with provisional restorations, and orthodontic treatment was initiated following digital set-ups incorporating implants into the overall strategy. Final porcelain-fused-to-zirconia restorations were placed after orthodontic treatment. At the 5-year follow-up, gingival morphology, coloration, and position of lateral incisors remained stable. Conclusions: This case demonstrates that connecting implants to natural teeth in the anterior region can effectively maintain periodontal tissues around natural teeth and allow for minimally invasive, short-term, and esthetic treatment. However, careful long-term observation through maintenance is necessary due to limited evidence for this approach in the anterior region. Full article

Background/Objectives: Surgical guides have been used in a variety of dental procedures, such as implant placement to improve clinical accuracy and reduce post-operative complications. This report presents a novel and versatile workflow for the design and fabrication of a “multi-purpose” fully-guided tooth- and bone-supported one-piece surgical guide. Methods: Briefly, intraoral and perioral anatomical features were captured by an intraoral scan and a cone-beam computed tomography scan. The data were segmented and aligned with analysis software to enable the digital design of surgical guides. The versatility of this method was demonstrated through its application in the two cases presented: the first involved a lateral sinus lift with simultaneous implant placement, and the second involved the removal of a foreign object from the alveolar bone prior to implant placement. Results: Positive clinical outcomes were confirmed at follow-up visits for up to 12 months. Conclusions: This method may be applied to a range of challenging clinical scenarios, such as apicectomy, the extraction of supernumerary or unerupted teeth, corticotomy to facilitate orthodontic movement, the precise reduction of bony spurs or exostoses, and the conservative surgical removal of pathologies. Full article

Background: Mini-implants have transformed orthodontic treatment by providing reliable anchorage and addressing challenges in anchorage control. This in vitro study aimed to compare the insertion torque (IT) values of three types of orthodontic mini-implants. The null hypothesis stated that no significant difference would be found in IT based on mini-implant type. Methods: We analyzed the mechanical ITs of 12 mini-implants categorized into four groups based on lengths (6, 8, 10, and 12 mm) and diameters (1.4, 1.6, and 2.0 mm). Mini-implants were inserted at a 90° angle into artificial bone (Sawbones^®) without pre-drilling. The ANOVA and Tukey’s post hoc test assessed differences, and Spearman’s correlation evaluated relationships between IT, diameter, and length. Results: The Lomas Mondefit^® 2 × 8 mm mini-implant had the highest IT (35 N), while the Jeil 2 × 12 mm had the lowest. Torque correlated with diameter (ρ = 0.609, p = 0.047) and length (ρ = 0.890, p < 0.001). The ANOVA showed significant differences (p = 0.035), with Leone^® and Lomas Mondefit^® differing significantly (p = 0.029). Mini-implant dimensions strongly influence IT. Conclusions: Mini-implant diameter and length significantly influence IT, highlighting their importance in clinical applications for optimal stability and performance. Full article

Background/Objectives: The stabilization disc (SD) for orthodontic mini-implants is a novel device designed to enhance anchorage stability and minimize the risk of mini-implant mobility. The disc features a flat structure with four prongs and is crafted from biocompatible materials such as titanium or stainless steel. It provides additional support to mini-implants by improving force distribution and reducing stress concentration around the insertion site. This study aims to evaluate the biomechanical performance of mini-implants with an SD compared to without-SD mini-implants, with a specific focus on their ability to maintain anchorage under orthodontic loading conditions. Methods: A finite element analysis (FEA) model was created for a commercially available mini-implant (2.0 mm in diameter and 12 mm in length). The mandible’s anatomical structure was reconstructed in 3D from computed tomography (CT) scans using SpaceClaim software 2023.1. To simulate real-world orthodontic conditions, forces of 10 N were applied at an angle of 30°. This retrospective study explores the role of SDs in enhancing mini-implant stability by reducing displacement and optimizing stress distribution. The evaluation included analyzing von Mises stress, cortical bone deformation, and mini-implant movement under simulated orthodontic loading. Results: The results demonstrate that the SD significantly reduces maximum total displacements by over 41% and redistributes von Mises stresses more evenly across the mini-implant and surrounding bone. Cortical bone stress and deformation were reduced in cases utilizing the SD, indicating enhanced implant stability and durability. Conclusions: The stabilization disc enhances mini-implant stability by improving stress distribution and reducing deformation without requiring permanent implant modifications. Its adaptability makes it a valuable solution for managing variable bone density and high orthodontic forces, offering a promising advancement in orthodontic anchorage. Full article

This study aims to assess and compare the shrinkage, accuracy, and accuracy stability of a novel 3D-printing model resin and eight commercially available 3D-printing model resin materials. The experimental model resin was developed by our 3D-printing proprietary resin technology. Eight commercially available 3D-printing model resins were included for comparison. The AcuVol video imaging technique was used to test volumetric shrinkage. Full-arch tooth models were printed for each model resin via digital light processing (DLP) technology. The 3D average distance between the scanned model and the designed CAD digital file was applied to determine the dimensional accuracy of the 3D-printed full-arch tooth models. One-way ANOVA and Tukey’s post hoc test (p < 0.05) were utilized to analyze the average values of volumetric shrinkage and 3D average distance (dimensional accuracy). The experimental model resin showed significantly lower volumetric shrinkage (7.28%) and significantly higher or higher accuracy and accuracy stability (11.66–13.77 µm from the initial day to four weeks) than the other commercially available model resins (7.66–11.2%, 14.03–41.14 µm from the initial day to four weeks). A strong correlation was observed between volumetric shrinkage and dimensional accuracy (Pearson correlation coefficient R = 0.7485). For clinically successful modelling applications in restorations, orthodontics, implants, and so on, the new 3D-printing model resin is a promising option. Full article