Temporary anchorage device stability: an evaluation of thread shape factor

Abstract

The resistance to extraction of temporary anchorage devices (TADs) depends on various factors, including miniscrew design, shear strength, and bone density. This research introduces the thread shape factor (TSF) as a new factor for the evaluation of TAD mechanical properties. The authors evaluated three TADs for a total of 27 tests: Mini-impianto autoforante (Leone, 1.75 mm diameter and 8 mm length), Orthoscrew (Leader Ortodonzia, 1.65 mm diameter and 9 mm length), and MAS (Miniscrew Anchorage System, 1.3 mm diameter and 11 mm length). For each TAD, the images were acquired via a 20.00 kV scanning electron microscopy to measure their respective mean depth of thread (D), pitch (P), and the relationship between the two (TSF). Subsequently, pullout tests on organic bone analogue were carried out using a testing machine; a crosshead speed of 2 mm/minutes was applied. A two-way analysis of variance was performed to evaluate the interaction between the type of miniscrew and the cortical thickness. A post hoc analysis for single comparisons was subsequently employed. In addition, if homogeneity of variances was not rejected, Scheffè's test was performed, while Tamhane's test was carried out if the homogeneity of variance assumption was not met. Univariate linear regression models were fitted to evaluate the relationship between the outcomes and TSF, D, and P separately. A P value of 0.05 was considered statistically significant. From univariate linear regression, TSF, D, and P were statistically significant predictors of 'peak load'. The tests showed that TSF has a statistical significance for describing the mechanical competency of TADs.