Digital three-dimensional planning of orthodontic miniscrew anchorage: A literature review

Abstract

Orthodontic miniscrews are used for skeletal orthodontic anchorage. An appropriate insertion technique is essential to avoid complications during miniscrew placement. The guides prepared using surface anatomy and 2D radiographs cannot correctly analyze bone volume. Advances in digital 3D medical technologies enabled orthodontists to use digital imaging, digital scanning, and 3D printing to accurately place miniscrews using a surgical guide developed with computer-aided design and manufacturing techniques. The objective of this article was to demonstrate the development of miniscrew placement techniques chronologically and provide brief information about the production, use, and efficiency of modern, digitally planned, and produced miniscrew insertion guides.