Studying the variation of roots’ lengths of mandibular incisors during surgically-assisted orthodontic alignment using Cone Beam Computed Tomography

Abstract

IntroductionOrthodontic root shortening is one of the complications which may cause movement of the teeth or even losing them. Many previous studies have found that accelerated orthodontic treatment using alveolar corticotomy could minimize the shortening and resorption of the roots. However, the X-ray imaging techniques used did not demonstrate the resorption on all root surfaces, and in some cases, they did not demonstrate root shortening unless it becomes aggressive. This study is to Evaluate variations in roots’ lengths of mandibular incisors during surgical-assisted orthodontic (SAO) alignment by alveolar corticotomy using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). MethodsIn this study, we evaluated 96 mandibular incisors of 24 patients who suffered from moderate dental crowding in the anterior region of the mandible. The patients were divided into two groups: the control group which was submitted to conventional orthodontic treatment and the study group which was submitted to surgically-assisted orthodontic treatment using alveolar corticotomy. CBCT images were used to evaluate roots’ lengths at two times (T0, T1). ResultsThe result of this study showed statistically significant differences in root shortening of the two groups, and the mean of this shortening was lower in the study group in comparison with the control group. ConclusionsThe (SAO) technique using alveolar corticotomy minimizes root shortening of the mandibular incisors during the initial alignment stage of orthodontic treatment.