Sana A

Researchers are evaluating two methods for moving the entire upper teeth backward in patients with skeletal Class II malocclusion. This randomized clinical trial compares the use of a Sliding Jig versus Retraction Hooks, both supported by infrazygomatic crest (IZC) miniscrews. The study aims to measure how fast the teeth move, the type of tooth movement, anchorage stability, patient comfort, and any side effects related to the treatments. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups: one using the Sliding Jig device and the other using Retraction Hooks, both anchored by IZC miniscrews placed near the upper first molars. A force of 300 grams will be applied through nickel-titanium springs every four weeks to move the teeth backward. Treatment uses pre-adjusted edgewise appliances with specific archwires, and the distalization will continue until a proper bite is achieved or after about six months. During the study, patients will have regular checks every four weeks including intraoral scans to create 3D models for precise measurement of tooth movement and stability of the miniscrews. Researchers will also use X-rays to assess tooth tipping and occlusal changes, collect patient feedback on pain and oral hygiene, and monitor for clinical side effects. The primary outcome is the rate of molar distalization over an average of five months, with additional measures including anchorage loss, tooth movement type, and patient-reported discomfort.

This research investigates the changes in alveolar bone and root resorption in patients with unilateral buccally displaced maxillary canines (BDMCs) before and after orthodontic traction. The study compares these changes to the normal opposite side and evaluates two different orthodontic traction techniques, segmental T-loop and piggyback NiTi traction, to understand their effects on bone and root structure. This randomized clinical trial addresses the challenges of treating BDMCs, which occur in about 0.8% to 5.2% of orthodontic cases and require careful movement to avoid bone loss and root damage. Participants receive orthodontic treatment using one of two methods. In the T-loop method, only the displaced canine is initially treated with a segmental T-loop wire applying light, constant force for about 3 months, followed by bonding all teeth for alignment. In the piggyback double wire method, all teeth are bonded first, excluding the displaced canine, which is later moved using a piggyback technique with specific wire sizes for traction. Both methods use preadjusted edgewise brackets and follow a defined wire sequence to align teeth and move the canine. Throughout the study, cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) images are taken before and after about 8 months of traction to measure changes in alveolar bone thickness and height, as well as root length. Researchers monitor these 3-D changes to compare the effectiveness and impact of the two traction techniques. Participants are assessed for bone and root health, and the study aims to provide detailed information on how these orthodontic methods influence dental structures during treatment.

Researchers are evaluating the use of osseodensification to expand narrow alveolar ridges in patients needing dental implants. Alveolar ridge deficiency can complicate implant placement, and osseodensification is a minimally invasive drilling method that compacts and preserves bone instead of removing it. This study aims to measure how much horizontal ridge expansion can be achieved using this technique without additional ridge augmentation procedures. The treatment involves preparing the implant site using Densah burs in a counterclockwise mode to densify and expand the bone. After local anesthesia and flap reflection, the initial bone width is measured at the crest and 5 mm below it. The densifying burs are then used with irrigation to expand the ridge laterally, and the bone width is measured again at the same locations. Finally, the dental implant is placed, and its primary stability is recorded using insertion torque. Post-operative care follows standard implant protocols. Participants will have measurements taken immediately before and after osseodensification during the same surgical procedure using standardized bone calipers. The study focuses on changes in ridge width as the primary outcome. Patients must attend follow-up visits and maintain good oral hygiene. The total participant involvement includes the surgical procedure and standard post-operative follow-up, with no comparison to other ridge expansion methods.