Sometimes, the devices need a support point to apply the movements of the dental pieces; For this, micro-implants are used in orthodontics.
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What are micro-implants in orthodontics?
Basically these are small screws made of titanium that are temporarily fixed to the maxillary bone.
As soon as these pieces are anchored to the bone, they provide a fulcrum that will help to correctly apply the necessary forces to achieve the movements that your teeth need.
In such a way that, thanks to the existence of these micro-implants, it is now possible to perform complex movements that were previously practically impossible without considering orthognathic surgery.
How do micro-implants work in orthodontics?
Without a doubt, the laws of physics apply where you least expect it; and in this case, Newton's third law (or law of action and reaction) is responsible for the existence of micro-implants in orthodontics.
In particular, this law indicates that if a force is applied to cause a movement (action), the same effect (reaction) will be produced in the opposite direction.
Otherwise, if we need to move a tooth as part of a orthodontic treatment and the anchorage is made from another tooth, an undesirable movement will occur in the latter.
For this reason, specialists resort to the use of micro-implants; which are placed at specific points of the maxillary bone to provide anchorage.
After the microscrews have been fixed, they can be used to provoke movements without altering any other tooth. For this, small elastic bands are used whose ends are located in the microimplant and the orthodontic appliance respectively.
For some time the rubber attachment will apply forces to achieve movement, and it is through follow-up visits that the orthodontist adjusts or replaces these elastic bands to allow the force to be constant.
How are microimplants placed?
First, a little local anesthesia is applied to the chosen area to avoid any discomfort to the patient.
The piece is immediately located by screwing it into what will be its final position. For this, the self-cutting action of the screw is used, which facilitates this work without the need for surgery; this action being completed in about 5 minutes.
As soon as the implant has been fixed, the patient will notice a small round-headed button that does not cut or injure the inside of the mouth and can be used immediately.
Just as the microimplant is positioned according to the function it is going to fulfill; for this same reason its size is variable. However, it is common to try to place it in an inconspicuous area above the patient's smile line.
What advantages does the use of micro-implants offer in orthodontics?
Provides maximum anchorage without affecting other teeth, for a 100% effective and controlled treatment.
They are placed very easily, without surgery or sutures. After the application of local anesthesia, in a few minutes the piece is screwed into position and can be used immediately.
Simplifies and reduces the duration of orthodontic treatment.
The pieces are made of 100% biocompatible titanium, so there are no allergies or rejections after placement.
They allow a wide variety of movements that include the retraction of vestibulized upper incisors, open bite treatment, straightening crooked or tilted molars, among others.
How long should microscrews be used?
Obviously this answer has to do with the complexity of each case.
Although the regular thing is that the treatment lasts between 10 – 12 months, each patient will have a variable number of micro-implants that can also be removed in more or less time.
However, at the time of extracting them, there are no major complications; simply rotate the piece in the opposite direction and it is removed.
Get to know some additional details of micro-implants in orthodontics by clarifying your concerns with the specialist. Contact us and request your next appointment so you can start your treatment as soon as possible.
