Micro-osteoperforation effectiveness on tooth movement rate and impact on oral health related quality of life: A randomized clinical trial

Abstract

Objectives: To investigate the effect of micro-osteoperforation (MOP) on the rate of tooth movement (RTM), space closure duration, and oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) during completion of anterior retraction in patients undergoing combined orthodontic-surgical treatment after premolar extraction and decompensation with sliding mechanics. Materials and Methods: Twenty-four participants with indications for premolar extractions were randomly allocated to treatment with conventional sliding mechanics (control group; CG) or with to treatment in which three MOPs were performed every activation (experimental group; EG). Dental impressions were taken monthly until space closure was completed and dental casts were converted to three-dimensional models. After the anterior retraction procedure, Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP-14) questionnaires were filled out at 4 and 72 hours. Results: Eighteen patients (7 men and 11 women) remained in the trial until space closure was completed (mean follow-up period = 247 days). For full space closure RTM, no significant difference (P=.492) was found between groups (0.614 mm/month for the CG; 0.672 mm/month for the EG). The RTM for different time points, groups, time frames and their interaction were statistically different (P < .05). The OHRQoL scores were significantly higher (worse) for the EG. The psychological, physical and social disabilities, and handicap domains displayed significant differences between the two groups. Conclusion: Use of MOPs did not change the full space closure RTM, while it had a negative impact on OHRQoL.