Two-dimensional radiographic and clinical references of the tooth crown for orthodontic mini-implant insertion: a guide-free technique.
OBJECTIVE
This study evaluated the reliability of tooth-crown radiographic references to aid in orthodontic mini-implant insertion and showed an insertion technique based on these references.


METHODS
The sample consisted of 213 interradicular septa evaluated in 53 bitewing radiographs. The proximal contour of adjacent tooth crowns was used to define septum width and its midpoint was linked to the interdental contact point to determine septum midline (SML). The distances from SML to mesial and distal teeth were measured and compared to evaluate SML centralization degree in 2 different septum heights.


RESULTS
The mesial and distal distances were not statistically different in the midpoint of the septum height, but they were different at the apical septum height.


CONCLUSIONS
The tooth-crown radiographic references determine a high centralization degree of the SML on which an insertion site could be defined. The greater SML centralization degree was observed at the coronal septum area.
Barros
Sérgio Estelita
SE
Department of Orthodontics, Bauru Dental School, University of São Paulo, Bauru, Brazil. sergioestelita@yahoo.com.br
Janson
Guilherme
G
Chiqueto
Kelly
K
Garib
Daniela Gamba
DG
D000539:Alveolar Process / Q000033:anatomy & histology / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D002508:Cephalometry; D003742:Dental Devices, Home Care; D003758:Dental Implantation, Endosseous / Q000379:methods*; D015921:Dental Implants; D005881:Gingiva / Q000033:anatomy & histology; D006801:Humans; D009811:Odontometry; D052280:Orthodontic Anchorage Procedures / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000379:methods; D009969:Orthodontic Wires; D010513:Periodontal Ligament / Q000033:anatomy & histology; D016300:Radiography, Bitewing; D019228:Tooth Crown / Q000033:anatomy & histology / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D014092:Tooth Root / Q000033:anatomy & histology / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging
D015921:Dental Implants