Upper molar intrusion in rehabilitation patients with the aid of microscrews.

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Overeruption of an upper molar following loss of the opposing tooth is a common clinical finding. Rehabilitation can be difficult when the interocclusal space is reduced. AIM: To intrude an overerupted upper first molar and replace the missing lower first molar. METHODS: Buccal and palatal microscrews and a transpalatal bar were placed. The palatal miniscrew loosened shortly after implantation and was not replaced. A short length of elastomeric chain from the buccal miniscrew applied 30 g of force to the overerupted molar. The elastomeric chain was replaced every four weeks. RESULTS: Sufficient intrusion of the upper molar was obtained in 4 months. CONCLUSION: A single buccal microscrew and transpalatal arch can be used to intrude an overerupted upper molar.