Duration of orthodontic treatment with clear aligners versus fixed appliances in crowding cases: a systematic review.

OBJECTIVE: To critically appraise and assess the currently observed evidence about the difference in orthodontic treatment duration between clear aligners and fixed appliances in crowding cases. MATERIALS AND METHODS: An electronic search without limitations was conducted from inception to June 2023 covering nine databases: The Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, Trip, CINAHL via EBSCO, EMBASE via OVID and ProQuest. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and matched non-randomized studies were included in this systematic review. Risk of Bias was assessed via Cochrane's tool (RoB 2) for RCTs and ROBINS-I tool for non-randomized studies. The Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) framework was employed to evaluate the overall quality of evidence. RESULTS: Out of the 3537 articles initially identified, ten eligible studies were included in this systematic review; six were RCTs. Only one study offered extraction-based treatment, while the other nine adopted non-extraction treatments. According to the GRADE, there is low evidence that treatment duration in mild to moderate crowding cases with clear aligners is similar to that in fixed orthodontic appliances. Meta-analysis was not administered due to high inconsistency. CONCLUSIONS: Based on currently available information, there was no significant difference in the treatment duration between the CA and FA groups in mild to moderate crowding cases. Further well-performed RCTs, especially in severe cases, are required. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Time efficiency is an essential outcome measure for clinical orthodontic practice. While the type of appliance used is a critical determinant of treatment duration, orthodontists should be aware of other factors that can significantly impact treatment time, such as patient and treatment-related factors.

Effect of age on orthodontic tooth movement in mice.

Background/purpose: The number of middle-aged and elderly orthodontic patients is increasing due to changes in age composition. It is important to investigate the detailed mechanisms of bone remodeling in orthodontic tooth movement (OTM) in the elderly. However, there are few reports on the mechanism of tooth movement in the elderly. The purpose of the present study was to analyze OTM and osteoclastogenesis in aged mice and to elucidate the mechanism. Materials and methods: It has been reported that tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α plays an important role in osteoclast formation and OTM. First, 8-week-old and 78-week-old male C57BL/6J mice were subcutaneously injected with TNF-α into the calvaiae, and micro-CT, tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) staining, and real-time PCR were performed to evaluate osteoclast formation and bone resorption. Furthermore, osteoclastogenesis by TNF-α and receptor activator of nuclear factor-kappa B ligand (RANKL) using bone marrow cells was evaluated in vitro. Finally, a nickel-titanium closed-coil spring was attached, mesial movement of the maxillary left first molar was performed, and tooth movement distance and osteoclast formation were evaluated. Results: Compared to 8-week-old mice, 78-week-old mice had decreased TNF-α-induced bone resorption, osteoclastogenesis, and TRAP and cathepsin K expression in the calvariae. In vitro osteoclast formation also decreased in 78-week-old mice. Furthermore, tooth movement distance and osteoclastogenesis were reduced. Conclusion: OTM decreased in aged mice, which was shown to be caused by a decrease in osteoclastogenesis. Therefore, it was suggested that it is necessary to keep in mind that tooth movement may be suppressed when treating elderly patients.

Evidence-based potential of generative artificial intelligence large language models in orthodontics: a comparative study of ChatGPT, Google Bard, and Microsoft Bing.

BACKGROUND: The increasing utilization of large language models (LLMs) in Generative Artificial Intelligence across various medical and dental fields, and specifically orthodontics, raises questions about their accuracy. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to assess and compare the answers offered by four LLMs: Google's Bard, OpenAI's ChatGPT-3.5, and ChatGPT-4, and Microsoft's Bing, in response to clinically relevant questions within the field of orthodontics. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Ten open-type clinical orthodontics-related questions were posed to the LLMs. The responses provided by the LLMs were assessed on a scale ranging from 0 (minimum) to 10 (maximum) points, benchmarked against robust scientific evidence, including consensus statements and systematic reviews, using a predefined rubric. After a 4-week interval from the initial evaluation, the answers were reevaluated to gauge intra-evaluator reliability. Statistical comparisons were conducted on the scores using Friedman's and Wilcoxon's tests to identify the model providing the answers with the most comprehensiveness, scientific accuracy, clarity, and relevance. RESULTS: Overall, no statistically significant differences between the scores given by the two evaluators, on both scoring occasions, were detected, so an average score for every LLM was computed. The LLM answers scoring the highest, were those of Microsoft Bing Chat (average score = 7.1), followed by ChatGPT 4 (average score = 4.7), Google Bard (average score = 4.6), and finally ChatGPT 3.5 (average score 3.8). While Microsoft Bing Chat statistically outperformed ChatGPT-3.5 (P-value = 0.017) and Google Bard (P-value = 0.029), as well, and Chat GPT-4 outperformed Chat GPT-3.5 (P-value = 0.011), all models occasionally produced answers with a lack of comprehensiveness, scientific accuracy, clarity, and relevance. LIMITATIONS: The questions asked were indicative and did not cover the entire field of orthodontics. CONCLUSIONS: Language models (LLMs) show great potential in supporting evidence-based orthodontics. However, their current limitations pose a potential risk of making incorrect healthcare decisions if utilized without careful consideration. Consequently, these tools cannot serve as a substitute for the orthodontist's essential critical thinking and comprehensive subject knowledge. For effective integration into practice, further research, clinical validation, and enhancements to the models are essential. Clinicians must be mindful of the limitations of LLMs, as their imprudent utilization could have adverse effects on patient care.

Compressive strength and fluoride release profile of a glass ionomer cement reinforced with silver-hydroxyapatite-silica hybrid nanoparticles: An in vitro study.

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to prepare a glass ionomer (GI) cement reinforced with silver-hydroxyapatite-silica (Ag/HA/Si) hybrid nanoparticles and assess its compressive strength and fluoride release profile. MATERIAL AND METHODS: In this in vitro, experimental study, 60 cylindrical specimens were fabricated with 4mm diameter and 6mm height in 6 groups (n=10) using BracePaste composite, GC Fuji II LC pure RMGI, and RMGI reinforced with 0.1wt%, 0.5wt%, 1wt%, and 2wt% Ag/HA/Si hybrid nanoparticles. The specimens were subjected to compressive force in a universal testing machine to measure their compressive strength (MPa). To assess their fluoride release profile, discs with 3mm diameter and 2mm thickness were fabricated from Fuji II LC pure resin-modified glass ionomer (RMGI), and RMGI with 0.1wt%, 0.5wt%, 1wt%, and 2wt% hybrid nanoparticles, and the concentration of released fluoride was measured by a digital ion-selective electrode. Data were analysed by ANOVA and Scheffe test (alpha=0.05). RESULTS: The compressive strength was 114.14MPa for BracePaste composite, and 97.14, 97.84, 100.65, 109.5, and 89.33MPa for GI groups with 0%, 0.1%, 0.5%, 1% and 2% hybrid nanoparticles, respectively, with no significant difference among them (P=0.665). Addition of 1% (0.21±0.07µg/mL, P=0.029) and 2% (0.45±0.22µg/mL, P=0.000) hybrid nanoparticles to RMGI significantly increased the amount of released fluoride, compared with the control group (0.09±0.03µg/mL). CONCLUSIONS: Addition of Ag/HA/Si hybrid nanoparticles to RMGI in the tested concentrations had no significant effect on its compressive strength but addition of 1wt% and 2wt% concentrations of Ag/HA/Si hybrid nanoparticles increased its fluoride release potential.

A 10-year-old boy with class II oligodontia treated with buccal fixed appliances and agenesis space closure of the four second premolars: Case report No. 230075 - Titularisation Collège Européen Orthodontie (CEO), European College of Orthodontics.

The patient presented in this case report is a 10-year-old boy with hyperdivergent skeletal Class II associated with familial genetic agenesis of the second premolars. The treatment plan chosen was to close the spaces of agenesis using a bimaxillary appliance fixed buccally. The advantages and disadvantages of this treatment option were discussed. The result was stable and made it possible to avoid an implant-prosthetic solution, which would undoubtedly have been more restrictive over time.

Effect of laser corticotomy on canine retraction rate: a split-mouth randomized clinical trial.

BACKGROUND: This study assessed the effect of corticotomy with Er: YAG (erbium-doped yttrium aluminium garnet) laser on the rate of canine retraction. METHODS: This randomized split-mouth controlled clinical trial was conducted on 12 patients undergoing orthodontic treatment with extraction of maxillary first premolars. Following initial leveling and alignment, an alginate impression was made from the maxillary arch, and Er: YAG laser corticotomy was performed in one of the maxillary quadrants of each patient. Canine retraction was started immediately after corticotomy by placement of nickel-titanium (NiTi) closed coil springs at both sides. At the end of each month, alginate records were repeated for 4 months. Study models were scanned, and the anteroposterior movement of canine was quantified bilaterally. Pain was also measured by a visual analog scale (VAS). Probing depth (PPD) of canines and two adjacent teeth was also evaluated and pulp vitality was assessed by performing the cold test. Data were analyzed by paired and independent t-test and one-way ANOVA (alpha = 0.05). RESULTS: The rate of canine retraction was significantly greater in the laser-assisted corticotomy quadrant than the control (P < 0.05). No significant difference existed in posterior anchorage loss, canine rotation angle, PPD, pulp vitality, or pain score between two groups (P > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Flapless Er: YAG laser corticotomy significantly enhanced canine retraction rate with no adverse effect on other parameters.

Integrated Care Strategies for Unilateral Cleft Lip and Palate: A Multidisciplinary Treatment Approach for Profile Correction.

Cleft lip and palate (CLP) is a prevalent congenital craniofacial deformity that can be unilateral or bilateral. This case report highlights the interdisciplinary approach to managing a 24-year-old male with unilateral CLP (UCLP), emphasizing the complexity of associated dental and skeletal challenges. The patient had undergone multiple surgeries, including lip closure at three months, palate repair at seven years, and alveolar bone grafting at 12 years. Clinical assessments revealed a retruded maxilla, an absence of lateral incisors, and scars from previous surgeries. Radiographic evaluations indicated a Class III skeletal pattern and confirmed the presence of a cleft on the left side. Orthodontic treatment commenced with maxillary arch alignment, followed by Le Fort I surgery to address maxillary retrusion, correct skeletal malocclusion, and close the alveolar cleft space. The post-surgical phase involved orthodontic adjustments, crossbite correction, and alignment of the mandibular arch. Despite the discontinuation of treatment due to the patient's relocation, the interdisciplinary collaboration achieved significant improvements, including a corrected facial profile, maxillary advancement, closure of the cleft space, and enhanced dental alignment. The patient's confidence and functionality were positively impacted. This case underscores the importance of a coordinated interdisciplinary approach to addressing the multifaceted challenges associated with UCLP, aiming to optimize both aesthetic and functional outcomes for improved patient well-being.

A Hypothesis Testing of Archwire Rounding for the Efficacy of Torque Springs in Orthodontics: A Finite Element Study.

BACKGROUND: Achieving the proper buccolingual inclination of teeth is a cornerstone in orthodontic treatment, directly impacting the attainment of ideal occlusal relationships and long-term stability. A practical torque expression that moves the tooth in its proper position across all three planes is imperative to finish orthodontic cases optimally. The primary focus of this research is to investigate Burstone's hypothesis about Warren torque springs when applied to the rectangular wire. Additionally, it examines the hypothesis of rounding these wires in between the bracket wings of the target tooth to be moved. This study aims to determine whether the rounding of wires, in conjunction with the use of torque springs, influences orthodontic outcomes, addressing a notable gap in current literature and resolving controversies in orthodontic practice. METHODS: A three-dimensional set of maxillary teeth was modeled. A 0.022" MiniSprint™ brackets and Stainless steel archwires of 0.019" × 0.025" and 0.017" × 0.025" (Forestadent, Pforzheim, Germany) were generated. Warren torque spring was modeled and used in the simulation on the upper right central incisor. Four case scenarios were simulated. In two scenarios, the archwires were untouched for both archwire sizes. In comparison, in the other two scenarios, each archwire size was rounded for the upper right maxillary incisor bracket area. Stresses in the Warren torque springs were calculated, the root tip displacement in the four scenarios was measured in millimeters, and both were analyzed. RESULTS: The root tip displacement was highly affected by rounding the archwire. The increase in root tip displacement was 1538% for the Warren torque spring on 0.019" × 0.025" and 783% for 0.017" × 0.025". The amount of root tip displacement was about 18.8 mm for 0.017" × 0.025" with rounding and 12.2 mm for 0.019" × 0.025". The concentration of the stresses in the Warren torque spring was in the neck of the spring next to the coils. CONCLUSION: Rounding the archwires while using the Warren torque spring on a rectangular archwire will increase the efficiency of the spring and, in turn, will exhibit more torque on the tooth. Smaller dimensions of rectangular archwires will give more torque in conjunction with Warren torque springs compared to larger sizes of archwires.

Dental and Periodontal Changes After Accelerated Correction of Lower Anterior Teeth Crowding With Periodontally Accelerated Osteogenic Orthodontics (PAOO) Procedure: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Objective To evaluate the relative efficacy of periodontally accelerated osteogenic orthodontics (PAOO) compared to conventional fixed appliances in correcting lower anterior teeth crowding using a non-extraction treatment approach. Material and methods A single-center, two-arm, parallel-group randomized controlled trial was conducted on 38 patients (9 males, 29 females) with moderate crowding. These patients did not require premolar extraction and were randomly allocated into two treatment groups: the PAOO group and the conventional orthodontic treatment group. The Little Irregularity Index (LII) measured crowding intensity on pre-treatment study models. Changes in this index were recorded monthly in both treatment groups. The inter-canine width, inter-second-premolar width, plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI), and papillary bleeding index (PBI) were also measured before and after the leveling and alignment stage. Statistical analysis between the two groups was performed using Mann-Whitney U tests. Results For the LII, the average time for irregularity resolution was three months in the PAOO group, compared to five months in the conventional orthodontic treatment group. Regarding changes in inter-second-premolar width, the PAOO procedure led to a significant decrease in the increase of inter-second-premolar width, with an average increase of +1.52 mm compared to +2.71 mm in the control group. For the GI and PBI, it was found that their values significantly increased with PAOO application, averaging 0.18 and 0.17, respectively, compared to 0.05 and 0.07 in the control group. Conclusions The use of PAOO in orthodontic treatment accelerated the leveling and alignment process by 40%. Changes in the inter-canine width, the inter-second-premolar width, and the status of periodontal tissues were minimal and clinically negligible.

Orthodontists on Social Media: Instagram's Influence.

Objective: The aim of this study was to determine how orthodontists utilize the social media application Instagram for health communication. Methods: Four Turkish keywords were manually searched on the Instagram platform on February 12, 2022: "orthodontist" (ortodontist), "orthodontics" (ortodonti), "orthodontic specialist" (ortodonti uzmani), and "doctor of orthodontist" (ortodonti doktoru). A total of 195 orthodontist accounts matching the inclusion criteria were divided into two groups: public and private. Profile information analyses were performed, and the results for public and private accounts were compared. Public accounts were further divided by gender and whether they shared a company name in their profiles. Groups were compared according to post content and type of patient photo. Statistical analysis involved the Shapiro-Wilk test, an Independent Samples t-test, the Mann-Whitney U test, and chi-square and Kappa tests. Results: The number of posts (96.06±149.30 vs. 195.36±248.51) and followers (1,250.56±2,347.47 vs. 4,071.43±6,557.63) were higher for public accounts. The number of followers (3,171.62±4,645.08 vs. 5,472.57±8,595.99) and daily posts (0.17±0.37 vs. 0.23±0.43) were higher for accounts with a company name. In the content analysis, posts on clear aligners (1.51±4.74 vs. 6.60±18.60, p<0.05) and patient and company advertisements were more common (0.49±1.85 vs. 3.70±10.70, p<0.05) for accounts with a company name. Conclusion: While public orthodontist accounts commonly promote fixed mechanics as a treatment option, accounts with a company name adopt a different approach, emphasizing the sharing of information about clear aligners.

Evaluation of the Quality and Reliability of YouTubeTM Videos Created by Orthodontists as an Information Source for Clear Aligners.

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the quality, reliability, and content usefulness of videos created by orthodontists on clear orthodontic aligners. Methods: Videos were screened using YouTubeTM by conducting a search for "Invisalign". After a preliminary evaluation of the first 250 results, 61 videos that met the selection criteria were scored and their length, days since upload, and numbers of views, likes, dislikes, and comments were recorded. These data were used to calculate the interaction index and viewing rate. Video reliability was assessed using a five-item modified DISCERN index, and video quality was assessed using the Video Information and Quality Index. A 10-item content usefulness index was created to determine the usefulness of the video content. Descriptive statistics of the parameters were calculated, and correlation coefficients were calculated to evaluate the relationships between the parameters. Results: The mean reliability score was 2.75±1.02 (out of 5), and the total quality score was 11.80±3.38 (out of 20). The total content usefulness index was quite low, with a mean score of 2.52±2.14 (out of 10). Interaction index and viewing rate were positively correlated with reliability score (r=0.463, p<0.01; r=0.295, p<0.05) and total quality score (r=0.365, p<0.01; r=0.295, p<0.01, respectively). The reliability score was positively correlated with the total quality score (r=0.842, p<0.01) and total content usefulness index (r=0.346, p<0.01). Conclusion: Videos about orthodontic aligner treatment have average reliability and quality but largely insufficient content.

Eating Disorders in Adolescents With Dental Braces: A Case Report.

Orthodontic treatment during adolescence can contribute to the development of problematic eating disorders. This case study presents the situation of a 12-year-old male patient who experienced a prolonged period of dietary limitation, showed signs of chronic illness, and underwent a significant weight loss because of wearing dental braces. These circumstances triggered the emergence of atypical eating behaviors and complicated the therapeutic process. A case report highlights the effectiveness of conducting psychological evaluations for patients with braces who experience significant weight loss to address possible eating disorders. It also addressed the effectiveness of psychoeducation supportive therapy and nutritional rehabilitation for establishing regular eating patterns during orthodontic treatment. This case also illustrates the significant role of parents in offering emotional support and enhancing professional care. However, conducting extensive longitudinal studies is imperative to fully explore the relationship between orthodontic treatment and eating disorders.

Orthodontic awareness amongst middle school teacher sand parents of twin cities.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the level of awareness towards orthodontic treatment among parents and teachers of middle school children. METHODS: The cross-sectional study was conducted from July 2021 to May 2022 in the middle schools of Rawalpindi and Islamabad, Pak istan, after approval from the ethics review committee of the Foundation University College of Dentistry and Hospital, Foundation University, Islamabad. Those included were middle school teachers and parents of students studying in middle schools. Data was collected using a validated questionnaire that had 6 demographic and 5 sur vey ques tions. The fo rm was digiti zed for easy dissemination a mong parents. Data was analysed us ing SPSS 23. RESULTS: Of the 240 subjects, 120(50%) each were parents and teachers. Overall, there were 165(68.75%) females and 75(31.25%) males. Level of education and professional exposure were not significantly different between teachers and parents (p>0.05). There was no difference in the level of education and professional work experience between th e parents and teacher (p>0.05). Teachers showed a higher level of awaren ess than parents towards the role of orthodontist in tooth alignment (p=0.013), associated habits with malalignment of teeth (p=0.003), and that the most appropriate age for tre atment wa s 10-15 years (p≤0.0 01). Teach ers were more likely of the opinion tha t facial disharmony is treatable than parents (odds ratio: 1.599, 95% confidence interval: 0.572-4.467). CONCLUSIONS: Teachers showed a higher level of awareness than parents regarding orthodontic treatment of children.

Comparing Torque Transmission of Different Bracket Systems in Combination with Various Archwires Considering Play in the Bracket Slot: An In Vitro Study.

This study aims to examine the play between various archwires and bracket systems, exploring potential variations in angle values for specific torque and torque values for a given angle along different bracket systems. Therefore, seven brackets systems were evaluated in conjunction with different stainless steel archwires of varying dimensions (0.016″ × 0.022″, 0.018″ × 0.025″, and 0.019″ × 0.025″). Biomechanical behavior during torque development and transmission was assessed using a six-component force/torque sensor. Torque angles (5-45°) were specified with subsequent torque measurement, and the sequence was reversed by setting the torque (5-30 Nmm) and measuring the angle. A reference measurement with 0 Nmm torque served to evaluate bracket slot play. Bracket play (0 Nmm) during palatal load ranged between 20.06° and 32.50° for 0.016″ × 0.022″ wire, 12.83° and 21.11° for 0.018″ × 0.025″ wire, and 8.39° and 18.73° for 0.019″ × 0.025″ wire. The BioQuick® bracket exhibited the highest play, while Wave SL® and Damon® Q brackets demonstrated the lowest play (p < 0.001). Significant differences (p < 0.001) between the brackets were observed in the torque angles required to achieve torques of 5-20 Nmm. In summary, each bracket system has a different torque transmission, which is of great clinical importance in order to achieve correct torque transmission and avoid complications such as root resorption.

Treatment Efficiency of Maxillary and Mandibular Orovestibular Tooth Expansion and Compression Movements with the Invisalign® System in Adolescents and Adults.

OBJECTIVES: Aligners are an effective and esthetic orthodontic treatment option for permanent and mixed dentition. There are only a few studies dealing with the effectiveness of orovestibular tooth movement using aligners and applying adequate examination methods. In the present retrospective study, the aligner efficiency of orovestibular movements for the entire dentition was systematically evaluated using 3D superimposition, taking into account the influence of jaw, tooth type and Invisalign® system. METHODS: Group 1 (n = 18 adults, Invisalign®) and Group 2 (n = 17 adolescents, Invisalign® Teen) were treated with Invisalign® Ex30 aligner material and Invisalign® specific auxiliary means. In this non-interventional retrospective study, pre- and post-treatment maxillary and mandibular plaster cast models were scanned and superimposed with ClinChecks® via Surface-Surface Matching Algorithm on unmoved teeth providing stable references. Effectivity of planned versus clinically realized movements was evaluated for each tooth. Statistics were performed with a t-test and Bonferroni-Holm correction (α = 0.05). RESULTS: Orovestibular movement efficiency was excellent without statistical significance regarding jaw, tooth type or Invisalign® system. Mandibular translational tooth movements were highly effective, and outstanding for premolars (91-98%). Maxillary translational tooth movements were successful for incisors and premolars, but less effective for canines and molars. Almost all teeth were moderately or very effectively corrected by crown tipping, performing better for mandibular (70-92%) than maxillary (22-31%) canines as much as for adolescent upper front teeth (81-85%) and lower canines (92%). CONCLUSIONS: Aligners are able to effectively implement translational orovestibular movements, supported by tilting the crowns for even more efficient implementation of the movements. This phenomenon was observed in our studies for all teeth in both jaws, regardless of the Invisalign® system used. Treatment planning should nevertheless take into account the individual patient parameters with regard to the movements to be performed in order to make the aligner therapy as successful as possible in terms of realizing the desired therapeutic goal.

Patient-Reported Outcomes of Maxillomandibular Surgery for Obstructive Sleep Apnea Treatment: A Scoping Review.

(1) Background: The present scoping review aims to scrutinize all existing patient-reported outcomes and assess the perspectives of obstructive sleep apnea patients after maxillomandibular surgery. (2) Methods: The review was carried out according to the extensions for scoping reviews using the PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Several databases were used to carry out the initial search. This study included randomized controlled trials, cohort studies, cross-sectional and case-control studies. The included studies considered patients with obstructive sleep apnea who were submitted to orthognathic surgery as the main subjects, and the patient's perception of quality of life, satisfaction, treatment experience and side effects were assessed. (3) Results: From 1407 examined articles, a total of 16 were included. Most of the included studies used more than one questionnaire to assess quality of life, except for five articles. The most commonly referred instruments were the Epworth Sleepiness Scale, SF-36, the Functional Outcomes of Sleep and Ottawa Sleep Apnea. The most commonly assessed outcomes were sleep quality, daytime function, facial aesthetics, dental function and emotional health. (4) Conclusions: The number of variables that can be evaluated from a patient's perspective are endless, as are the tools available to assess them. Not all of these tools, which are generally questionnaires, assess all the various outcomes, and some do not compare the pre- and post-surgical situations. Most of them are generic and lack specificity for obstructive sleep apnea.

A Three-Dimensional Evaluation of Skeletal and Dentoalveolar Changes in Growing Class II Patients after Functional Appliance Therapy: A Retrospective Case-Control Study.

Background: The aim was to assess three-dimensionally mandibular and maxillary changes in growing Class II patients treated with removable functional appliances followed by fixed appliances. Methods: Twenty-four Class II patients (age range: 9 to 14, mean: 12.1 ± 1.1 years) treated with removable functional appliances followed by fixed appliances (functional appliance group-FAG) were retrospectively selected and compared to an age-matched control group (CG) treated with fixed appliances only. To be included in the study, pre- and post-treatment CBCT scans had to be available. The CBCTs were used to analyze, in 3D, the changes following treatment and growth. Results: Before treatment, overjet (FAG: 9 mm ± 2.8 (mean ± standard deviation); CG: 4 mm ± 1.7), ANB (FAG: 5.7° ± 2.0; CG: 3.2° ± 1.4), and effective mandibular length (FAG: 113.0 mm ± 4.1; CG: 116.6 mm ± 5.9) were statistically significantly different between the two groups. After treatment, overjet (FAG: -6.8 mm ± 2.8; CG: -1.8 mm ± 1.8) and effective mandibular length (FAG: 6.3 mm ± 2.6; CG: 3.9 mm ± 2.6) statistically significantly changed. There was a significant difference in the treatment effect between the FAG and the CG in overjet, ANB, and effective mandibular length. Conclusions: The results indicate that functional appliances are effective in correcting Class II malocclusions. The growth modification in the FAG resulted in an increase in mandibular length. Yet, the final length of the mandible in the FAG was smaller when compared to the CG.

Evaluation of Micro-Osteoperforations in Expediting Orthodontic Tooth Movement in Adult Patients.

Background: Orthodontic tooth movement, the process of aligning teeth, can often be time-consuming, particularly in adult patients. Micro-osteoperforations (MOPs) have emerged as a potential technique to accelerate this process. Materials and Methods: A sample of 30 adult patients undergoing orthodontic treatment was selected. The patients were divided into two groups: an experimental group (EG) receiving MOPs and a control group (CG) without MOPs. Standard orthodontic treatment was administered to both groups. The rate of tooth movement was measured using digital models and recorded in millimeters per month. Pain levels reported by patients were also noted. The data were analyzed using basic statistical methods. Results: The EG demonstrated a significantly higher rate of orthodontic tooth movement compared to the CG. The average rate of tooth movement in the EG was 1.5 millimeters per month, while the CG exhibited an average rate of 0.8 millimeters per month. Additionally, pain levels reported by patients in the EG were slightly elevated immediately after MOPs but subsided within a few days. Conclusion: The findings of this study suggest that MOPs can effectively expedite orthodontic tooth movement in adult patients.

Comparison of Friction Produced at Backet-Wire Interface in Monocrystalline Ceramic Brackets of 8 Different Brands: An In Vitro Study.

Introduction: The esthetic during the various orthodontic treatments has led to the invention of the brackets. When different ceramic brackets and archwires are used, the different frictional forces may result in the different outputs. Hence, in the present study, we evaluated and compared the frictional resistance between eight standard monocrystalline ceramic bracket models and each of the archwires of four different alloys. Materials and Methods: Frictional force was tested using Instron testing machine, in vitro, for eight types of monocrystalline ceramic bracket, and four types of archwires beta-titanium, NiTi, copper-nickel-titanium, and stainless steel statistical analysis were done using various tools, and significance value of <0.05 was considered. Results: Ormco and AO (Radiance) monocrystalline ceramic brackets created lesser frictional resistance than other monocrystalline ceramic brackets. Stainless steel archwire generates lesser static friction. Beta-titanium archwire created higher static friction. A 0.017 × 0.025 inch stainless steel archwire generates lesser static friction to 0.019 × 0.025 inch TMA. Conclusion: It can be concluded that Ormco and AO (Radiance) monocrystalline ceramic brackets, with stainless steel archwires and of size 0.017 × 0.025 inch, can generate better forces when used for the orthodontic tooth movements.

Effectiveness of Miniscrew-Supported Molar Intrusion: A Clinical Study.

Mini-screws, also known as temporary anchorage devices (TADs), offer enhanced control and versatility in orthodontic treatment by providing stable anchorage points. This clinical study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of mini-screw-supported molar intrusion in orthodontic practice. For this clinical study, a cohort of 40 orthodontic patients with various malocclusions requiring molar intrusion as part of their treatment plan was recruited. The age range of the participants spanned from 14 to 35 years, representing a diverse patient population. The intervention involved the implementation of mini-screw-supported molar intrusion on one side of the maxillary arch in each patient. To achieve this, temporary mini-screws were strategically placed, and a combination of orthodontic forces and mini-screw anchorage was employed to intrude the molars. The primary outcome measure for this study was the amount of molar intrusion achieved, which was quantified in millimeters from the initial evaluation to the final visit. Additionally, the duration of treatment required to achieve the desired molar intrusion was recorded in months. The results of this clinical study demonstrated that mini-screw-supported molar intrusion was an effective and safe orthodontic technique. On average, a significant mean molar intrusion amount of 4.8 mm (standard deviation [SD] ± 0.6) was achieved with the mini-screw-supported approach. Furthermore, the treatment duration required to attain the desired molar intrusion was relatively short, with a mean of 6.2 months (SD ± 1.1). In conclusion, this clinical study provides evidence that mini-screw-supported molar intrusion is an effective and safe approach in orthodontic practice. It offers orthodontists the advantage of enhanced control and predictability in molar intrusion procedures.