Orthodontic skeletal anchorage in complex cases: Mini-implants vs osseointegrated fixtures

The aim of this study was to show the benefits, possibilities and limits of mini-implants to obtain a rigid skeletal anchorage for tooth movements. The study utilized 51 patients. Were inserted 35 mini-implants and 37 fixtures to control anchorage. In some adult patients, orthodontic anchorage may be more difficult to achieve because of missing teeth and wide edentulous spaces. In these situations, the implants may be used initially as skeletal anchorage to facilitate tooth movement, and secondarily as abutments for fixed prostheses.Tooth movement that is difficult or impossible with conventional tooth-borne anchorage is also possible with mini-implants. The use of mini-implants as anchorage produces a satisfactory result in a short period of time with two minimal surgical procedures, and enables to insert an appliance in any aimed position and carries out easily the tooth movements.This is very important for preventing dental, periodontal, esthetical and psychological problems during orthodontic treatment.