Purpose: We present a technique to reduce the overall orthodontic treatment time by means of dentoalveolar distraction osteogenesis.
Patients and methods: Eleven patients who were planned to undergo orthodontic treatment with bilateral first premolar extractions and subsequent bilateral canine tooth distalization underwent osteotomy around the canine tooth. The first premolar was extracted, and the buccal bone was carefully removed. After wound closure, a special orthopedic device was mounted and cemented to the first molar and canine teeth. Distraction was started the same day at the rate of 0.4 mm twice a day and continued until adequate movement of the canine teeth was achieved. The device was then removed, and orthodontic therapy was continued with fixed appliances.
Results: The distraction rate and the device were well tolerated by all of patients. No anchorage loss in the second premolar and first molar teeth, root resorption, dental ankylosis, discoloration, or loss of vitality was detected.
Conclusion: The concept of distraction osteogenesis for rapid orthodontic tooth movement is promising and feasible for clinical practice.
Copyright 2002 American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons