A NOVEL TECHNIQUE FOR SEGMENTAL DISTALIZATION- TAD AIDED SEGMENTAL MECHANICS

Aim: This paper aims to demonstrate a technique wherein the posterior segment from premolars to the last erupted molar was distalized using a single mini implant system.

Materials and Methods: This technique used .022 slot MBT brackets with segments of wires - (.018 stainless steel [SS]) extending from the terminal molar to canine on the side needing distalization. One Titanium mini implant (1.5x8 mm) was positioned distal to the canine on the quadrant to be distalized. Two nickel-titanium (NiTi) open coil springs were used- One between the last two teeth of the quadrant which is passive, and another active spring between the Canine and Second Premolar (if the patient had a full complement of teeth) or between the Canine and First Molar if the first premolar had already been extracted and the patient was a retreatment case. The mini implant was used to activate a Guerin lock placed distal to the canine on the arch wire the using ligature ties.

Results: The rate of distalization of the posterior segment was approximately 1.5 mm in three weeks.

Conclusion: This treatment modality can provide for effective distalization, saving time and minimizing the obvious side effects like flaring of incisors. It also provides a non extraction approach to solving problems involving increased Overjet in class II malocclusion patients.