Miniscrew Applications in Orthodontics

Abstract

Recently, implants have been used as skeletal anchorage devices for orthodontic purposes [2-5]. Temporary anchorage devices (TADs) [1,9,10], including miniplates, implants and miniscrews, have been used for skeletal anchorage [6-8]. TADs are inserted into the bone and aim to enhance orthodontic anchorage either by supporting the anchoring teeth or by being an independent anchorage unit eliminating the need for supporting teeth; they are removed once their function has been completed. They can be fixed into the bone either biomechanically (osseointegration) [11] or mechanically (cortical stabilization) [8]. Clinicians can better control anchorage by using TADs in orthodontic treatment, thereby achieving more satisfactory treatment results than could be achieved with conventional mechanics [6,12].