Clinical outcomes for two mini-implant systems used in a hospital orthodontic department: the absence of a learning curve

From Volume 2, Issue 4, October 2009 | Pages 117-121

Authors

Stephen M Chadwick

BDS, FDS RCS(Ed), MSc, MOrth, FDS(Orth), MA

Articles by Stephen M Chadwick

Colin A Melrose

BDS, FDS RCS(Ed), MDentSci, MOrth RCS(Ed)

Consultants in Orthodontics, Countess of Chester Hospital, Liverpool Road, Chester CH2 1UL, UK

Articles by Colin A Melrose

Abstract

Since the introduction of mini-implants to manage anchorage in the last decade, many orthodontists have taken to these devices and incorporated them in their routine clinical practice. However, others are still sceptical to the idea and are awaiting further sound evidence before they make this choice. We have been using these devices since 2005. Mini-implants have enabled us to treat complex anchorage demanding cases which would have been difficult to manage successfully without a flexible source of temporary anchorage support. This audit project describes our experience using mini-implants, the lack of a ‘learning curve’ and the high level of success achieved.

Article