Accuracy of the Expected Root Position Setup to Monitor Root Angulations and Inclinations during Orthodontic Treatment: A Pilot Study

Abstract

Introduction: Accurate root placement is important for successful orthodontic treatment. Current radiographic techniques to monitor root positions are inaccurate, exhibit poor definition, or use relatively large amounts of radiation in relation to the benefit to the patient. A new methodology that generates an “expected root position” (ERP) setup may be a potential alternative to monitor root position accurately and with minimal radiation. Materials and Methods: This retrospective pilot study included five patients who have completed phase II orthodontic treatment. An ERP setup was generated for all patients at posttreatment. The ERP setup was compared to the posttreatment cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scan which served as the control. Mesiodistal angulation and buccolingual inclination of all teeth in both the ERP setup and posttreatment CBCT scans were compared to assess the accuracy of the ERP setup. A power analysis was performed. Results: A total of 128 teeth were measured in this study. Nine teeth (7.0%) were measured for mesiodistal angulation and seven teeth (5.5%) were measured for buccolingual inclination which were outside of the ±2.5° range of clinical acceptability. Conclusion: The methodology of generating an “ERP” has the potential to accurately monitor root movement during orthodontic treatment. The power analysis found that 15 patients would be necessary to validate this methodology with adequate power.