Mini- Implant Materials: An Overview

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of the present investigation was to review and evaluate the current literature on the mini-implants in orthodontics with regard to their materials properties. The ultimate aim of biomaterials as applied to mini-implants is to serve as efficient temporary anchorage devices. The attainment of this objective is dependent upon a complex interplay of material properties, device design, and physiologic requirements. It is the orthodontist's responsibility to understand both the materials and structural limitations of these devices and the principles of application to minimize performance failure. Manufacturers use six different titanium-based biomaterials to fabricate mini implants. Each of these materials, including four grade of commercially pure titanium and two titanium alloys and 316L Stainless steel used as a mini implant materials each has distinct mechanical and physical properties. Clinician should recognize these differences for to minimize performance failure and patient care. 1 In 1997, Wehrbein et al tested short titanium (Ti) screw implants in the maxilla for orthodontic anchorage in Germany. 2 In the same year, in Japan, Kanomi used mini-implants to anchor orthodontic movements. 3 The use of miniscrew implants in orthodontics for enhancing anchorage has progressed in recent years, with many applications involving retraction of anterior teeth, correction of open bites, distalization and intrusion of teeth. Even though it has been more than 10 years since the first reports on this anchorage system, most evidence is still in case reports or case follow-up studies, with only a few articles dealing with basic material properties. 4,5