ORTHODONTICS AND DENTAL IMPLANTS: BROADING THE SPECTRUM OF TREATMENT OPTIONS TO IMPROVE DENTAL AND MEDICAL HEALTH IN THE GENERAL POPULATION: A REVIEW

Abstract

Introduction: Dentistry in general and  orthodontics in particular are always  developing new  methods to favor  both  patients in private and  public dental practice. Objective: Evaluate the role, advantages, disadvantages, forces and other mechanical variables of  dental implants in orthodontics.  Methods: A review of the literature using 30 scientific papers both in Portuguese and English. 26 were considered suitable with sufficient data  to carry out the review. Results: Most non implant devices used in orthodontics rely on patients´ compliance. Skeletal anchorage using dental implants, mini-plates or mini-screws provide absolute anchorage for tooth movement. Dental implants  can be used as an  invaluable aid to attain a number of tooth movements including retraction, uprighting, intrusion, mesial and distal movement, closing of edentulous spaces, stabilization, orthopedic traction and repositioning of  badly positioned teeth. Dental implants can be placed in many  anatomic areas and present    advantages  including reliable and  absolute anchorage.  Conclusions: Implantable devices used in  orthodontics  practice  increase orthodontic anchorage, eliminate patient´s compliance need and decrease  treatment time. Dental implants can be used to carry out a  number of different orthodontic movements  which could not be possible without  the use of these recently introduced devices. They increase treatment options in private and public health.

Keywords: Dental Implants. Tooth Movement. Advantages. Private/Public Health.