Histomorphometric study of alveolar bone-implant (miniscrew) interface used as an orthodontic anchorage

Abstract

The use of miniscrews as an orthodontic anchorage has become widely accepted among orthodontists throughout the world. However, only few histological studies have been reported with regard to the healing process at the bone-implant interface in the past. Therefore, we have (1) analyzed the healing process of alveolar bone surrounding miniscrew by dynamic and static histomorphometric indices and (2) histomorphometrically assessed the change in the cortical bone thickness. Results indicated that small miniscrews were able to function as rigid osseous anchorage against orthodontic load with minimal (under 3 weeks) healing period. We suggest that this sufficient amount of cortical (woven) bone at the initial stage of the healing enables the immediate loading in miniscrews to resist against orthodontic force. Furthermore, less amount of cortical bone formed at the head of the miniscrew may be one reason for the higher failure rate in the mandible compared to the maxilla.