Correction of protruded incisors by rapid tooth distalization and skeletal anchorage systems: Orthodontic treatment of an adult patient

Abstract

Rapid canine distalization through periodontal ligament distraction is an efficient method to shorten the treatment duration in premolar extraction cases. After distalization phase, skeletal anchorage systems can be used during the retraction of the incisors in patients required maximum anchorage. A 37 years old female patient with convex profile and prominent lips referred to our clinic for orthodontic treatment. The chief complaints were her unaesthetic facial appearance, and difficulties in closing her lips and pronunciation of some words. To retract the protruded incisors, extraction of the mandibular first premolars, and using the space of the previously extracted maxillary right second premolar and left first premolar was planned. In order to shorten the duration of treatment, rapid tooth distalization through the periodontal distraction was used and to provide maximum anchorage control skeletal anchors were preferred. At the end of the orthodontic treatment that lasted for 11 months, prominence of the upper and lower lips, and the convex profile were corrected through the retrusion of incisors and the patient acquired a more youthful appearance.