The effect of micro-osteoperforations on orthodontic space closure investigated over 12 weeks: a split-mouth, randomized controlled clinical trial.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the effects of minimally invasive micro-osteoperforations (MOPs) on orthodontic tooth movement and pain. DESIGN: Prospective, split-mouth, randomized controlled trial. SETTING: Single-centre, university hospital. METHODS: Twenty subjects requiring maxillary first premolar extractions were included. Right and left sides of the maxilla were randomly allocated into experimental and controls. Space closure was initiated following alignment on 0.20″ stainless steel archwires, using 150 g force, applied by coil springs on power arms. Nance-TPA was used for anchorage. On the experimental side, two 5 mm deep MOPs in vertical alignment on distal aspect of the maxillary canine mid-root region were performed prior to space closure. OUTCOMES: The primary outcome was the amount of tooth movement during space closure, measured every 4 weeks for 12 weeks (T1, T2, and T3). Secondary outcome was the pain levels related to MOP, measured using Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) questionnaires. Significance was set at P < 0.01. RANDOMIZATION: Randomization was generated using a randomization table, and allocation was concealed in sequentially numbered, opaque, sealed envelopes. BLINDING: Blinding was not possible during the experiment but assessor was blinded during outcome assessment. RESULTS: All subjects completed the study, with tooth movement measurements available for all 20 patients for T0-T2. In three patients, space was closed on one side at T2. The average tooth movement between sides at three intervals (T0-T1, T1-T2, and T2-T3) were not significantly different. Overall difference following 12 weeks (T0-T3) was 0.69 mm higher on the experimental side (P < 0.001). No harms were observed. LIMITATIONS: Short-term study, cast measurements done with digital callipers. CONCLUSION: This 12-week randomized split-mouth controlled clinical trial showed two MOPs that are 5 mm deep, applied once prior to space closure, did not create clinically significant increase in maxillary premolar space closure. PROTOCOL: The protocol was not published before trial commencement. REGISTRATION: Trial was not registered. FUNDING: The Australian Society of Orthodontists Foundation for Research and Education.