Title: A simple and efficient approach for molar distalization

Abstract:

Distalization of the posterior regions of the dental arches is an important therapeutic objective in clinical cases where mesialization of molars has occurred under the influence of eruptive physiological forces or from various other causes. Orthodontic distal movement of molars is beneficial for creating space in the case of dental crowding, but it is of real use in correcting occlusion relationship and interincisal midline deviation. Therefore, this technique is particularly useful for correcting Class II Malocclusions, Class III camouflage cases, or decompensation Class III surgical patients. Possibilities of obtaining molar distalization saw real progress with the introduction of skeletal anchorage systems. However, molar distalization is limited by the anatomical characteristics of the distal areas of the alveolar arches. Our objectives for this research were to analyze the limits of the complete offer available for molar distalization, as well as the efficiency of simple methods of obtaining molar distalization using temporary anchorage devices, placed in the palatal region or the retromolar area of the mandible. The sample included in the study consisted of 24 patients ages 17+4.27 years, without skeletal imbalances or with mild skeletal imbalances. We aimed to correct the occlusion relationships in the sagittal plane by resorting to the distalization of the upper or lower molars, depending on the specifics of the clinical case. Distalization of molars, allowed by the anatomical limits of the bone cortex, was possible with an average of 4.23 cm in the maxillary arch and 3.54 cm in the mandibular arch, respectively. Distalizing molars using effective skeletal anchorage has important benefits for correcting occlusal relationships in the sagittal plane and creating space on the hemiarchs.