Selective piezocision-assisted orthodontic treatment combined with minimally invasive alveolar bone regeneration: A proof-of-concept

Abstract

Piezocision is a localised piezoelectric alveolar decortication involving minimally invasive corticotomies to accelerate orthodontic treatments. The objective of this proof-of-concept was to describe an innovative protocol combining selective piezocision with minimally invasive bone regeneration to reduce the risk of buccal tissue dehiscences often observed in orthodontic treatments. This proof-of-concept initial report aimed at investigating whether this new surgical concept is relevant. A patient presenting an asymmetrical dental class II, overcrowdings, midline deviations and buccal bone dehiscences in the lower incisor region was treated with this new treatment approach. From an orthodontic point of view, the dental class II, the overcrowdings and the midlines were completely corrected. From a periodontal perspective, no gingival recession was observed; however, scars related to the piezocision were slightly visible at the mandible. The post-imaging demonstrated the absence of bone dehiscences. Up to 3 years after the completion of the treatment, no relapse was observed. This novel approach suggested several advantages and may be further investigated at a larger scale in order to validate the benefits and to define the scope of intervention.