Apical root resorption in Class II Div 1 malocclusion patients during en-masse maxillary anterior retraction with mini-screws

Abstract

Introduction: Apical root resorption depends on a number of factors and orthodontic treatment is blamed to be one of them. Evaluation often requires radiographic measures and becomes paramount in certain cases. The objective of the present study was to determine the mean change in amount of apical root resorption in Class II Div 1 malocclusion patients treated with en-masse maxillary anterior retraction with the aid of mini-screws.

Material and Methods: This was a Quasi experimental study conducted at Department of Orthodontics, Altamash Institute of Dental Medicine, Karachi. A total of 40 patients with Angle class II Div I malocclusion were enrolled for this study and were aimed for treatment with fixed mechanotherapy (bonded brackets with Roth prescription). OPG was taken pre-treatment and after 6 months post bond-up. The amount of root resorption was measured with the help of vernier calipers. All information was noted on the proforma.

Results: Apical root resorption significantly increased after treatment (2.48 ± 0.82 vs 1.66 ± 0.46; mean change = 0.82 ± 0.47, p = 0.0005).

Conclusions: Root resorption cannot be avoided with Orthodontic treatment. Measures must be taken to minimize it and patients with risk factors associated to root resorption must be identified prior to the start of fixed mechanotherapy. This phenomenon must be included in the consent form for every patient.