Progress in Orthodontics

Unwanted creaniofacial fractures in MARPE/MASPE patients: a hidden risk?
Walter A, Winsauer H, Crespo E, Arcos I, Valls-Ontañón A, Puigdollers-Perez A and Hernández-Alfaro F
Miniscrew-assisted palatal expansion techniques such as MARPE (Miniscrew-Assisted Rapid Palatal Expansion) and MASPE (Miniscrew-Assisted Slow Palatal Expansion) represents non-surgical alternatives for the correction of transverse maxillary deficiencies in adults. However, concerns have arisen regarding their potential to cause craniofacial complications due to the high forces applied for midpalatal suture opening in skeletally mature patients.
Accuracy comparative study of automatic landmarking and diagnostic models on lateral cephalograms
Bu WQ, Shi ZY, Tian ZQ, Han MQ, Zhang D, Wang S, Sun Y, Zhou Q, Hu ZP, Wang F, Du SY and Guo YC
The application of deep learning techniques in cephalometric analysis has become increasingly prominent. Although automatic landmarking models for cephalometric analysis have been developed, their accuracy still requires validation and relies heavily on clinicians to resolve discrepancies between results. To address these limitations, automatic diagnostic models have gained attention. However, there is no direct evidence establishing the superiority of one model over the other, especially the generalization and transferability.
Evaluation of the stability of immediately reinserted orthodontic miniscrews using a novel bioactive adhesive composite: an in vivo animal study
Babanouri N, Hajipour F, Mokhtarzadegan M and Tanideh N
To evaluate the effectiveness of a novel bioactive adhesive composite-comprising chitosan (CS), nanohydroxyapatite (nHA), β-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP), and postbiotics-in enhancing the stability of orthodontic miniscrews immediately reinserted following failure in the same insertion site using a new miniscrew in an in vivo rat femur model.
Reliability of different composite materials in aligner treatments: a comprehensıve in vitro study
Yildiz H and Dedeoglu M
Clear aligner therapy has become increasingly prevalent in orthodontics, with composite attachments serving as critical components for achieving predictable tooth movements. Despite their importance, composite material selection remains largely empirical. This double-blind in vitro study assessed four composite materials' performance as aligner attachments under simulated clinical conditions.
Correction to: Relationship between craniofacial skeletal patterns and anatomic characteristics of masticatory muscles: a systematic review and meta‑analysis
Togninalli D, Antonarakis GS and Papadopoulou AK
Influence of sex and age on the gene expression of periodontal and pulp tissues during orthodontic tooth movement
Zhao Z, Fieuws S, Attanasio C, Pedano MS and Cadenas de Llano-Pérula M
Orthodontic tooth movement (OTM) is a complex biological process triggered by orthodontic forces (OF). This study aims to study the influence of sex and age on the gene expression of the dental pulp (DP) and periodontal ligament (PDL) of human premolars subjected to 7 and 28 days of OF in vivo.
Microplastics and nanoplastics in clinical dentistry and orthodontics: leaching, health implications, and future directions: a narrative review
Umrai Shariff K, Le A, Goodwin-Loughton E, Chung M, Ali A, Farella M and Venugopal A
This narrative review critically summarizes that microplastics and nanoplastics have been found in many different environments, including water and food, raising concerns on their possible harm to human health. Previous research indicates that microplastics may cause inflammation and tissue damage; however, the full extent of their health risks remains uncertain. Given the long-term use of plastic-based orthodontic appliances such as aligners, retainers, and widespread usage of adhesives, the potential release of microplastics and nanoplastics during routine wear and mechanical stress warrants thorough investigation to ensure patient safety and long-term biocompatibility. The literature search conducted for this review was structured but non-systematic, with no formal risk-of-bias evaluation. This review aimed to critically evaluate the impact of microplastics and nanoplastics on human health, with a focus on their relevance to orthodontics. The review also aimed to identify possible gaps in current research, particularly regarding the quantification of microplastic leakage from orthodontic appliances and their possible long-term effects. Current evidence highlights a clear need for more targeted research to inform and improve safety standards regarding microplastics and plastic usage in orthodontic and dental practice.
Evaluation of different methods of correcting deep bite in adult and adolescent patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Rasol OA, Hajeer MY, Alam MK, Jaber ST, Kara-Boulad JM and Jaber S
A deep bite is a prevalent malocclusion, and its treatment remains one of the most debated topics in orthodontics due to the variety of underlying causes and the diverse orthodontic approaches employed to address it.
A novel machine-learning-based model for prediction of open gingival embrasures between mandibular central incisors after clear aligners treatment: a retrospective cohort study
Li G, Guo F, Chen J, Li H and Lei L
To develop a machine-learning-based model and construct a nomogram that integrates ClinCheck features and clinical risk factors for accurately predicting open gingival embrasures (OGE) between mandibular central incisors after clear aligner treatment (CAT).
Factors influencing fenestration and dehiscence in the anterior teeth after clear aligner treatment: a multicenter retrospective study
Song Z, Liu Q, Luo H, Fan X, Zhang M, Liu B, Yan B, Zhang X, Ren L, Ma Y and Jin Z
This retrospective clinical study, using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT), examined the presence of fenestration and dehiscence in anterior teeth following non-extraction clear aligner therapy, along with the associated risk factors.
Integrative multi-omics and causal inference reveal periodontal ligament cell-macrophage crosstalk under orthodontic force
Jiang Y, Zhou J, Huang Y, Bai Y, Chen X and Huang L
Orthodontic tooth movement requires synchronized mechanoadaptive and osteoimmune interactions, yet molecular pathways linking mechanical forces to immune-mediated bone remodeling remain incompletely characterized. This study aimed to elucidate molecular drivers and dissect cell crosstalk under orthodontic force, with a focus on their immunoregulatory consequences.
Accuracy comparison of orthodontic movements obtained with 3D printed and thermoformed aligners: a retrospective cohort study
Migliorati M, Posadino M, Provenzano C, De Mari A and Drago S
The aim of this retrospective cohort study is to calculate the accuracy of dental movement in consecutively treated patients treated with thermoformed and direct printed aligners.
Inhibition of NCOA4/FTH1-mediated ferritinophagy attenuates ferroptosis in PDLCs and alleviates orthodontically induced inflammatory root resorption
Liu L, Li D, Zhou Z, Ding H, Zhang R, Han X, Huang K and Jiang C
Disruption of iron homeostasis is closely associated with ferroptosis and inflammation-related diseases. Nuclear receptor coactivator 4 (NCOA4)-mediated ferritinophagy plays a central role in regulating intracellular iron levels and inducing ferroptosis. However, its involvement in orthodontically induced inflammatory root resorption (OIIRR) remains largely unexplored. METHODS : In vitro, a compressive force (CF) loading model was established using human periodontal ligament cells (hPDLCs). Western blotting and immunofluorescence staining were performed to detect the expression of ferroptosis-related proteins, including NCOA4, FTH1, and GPX4. Intracellular levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), Fe²⁺, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) were measured using a ferroptosis assay kit. JC-1 staining was used to evaluate mitochondrial membrane potential. NCOA4 was silenced via lentiviral transfection, and the small-molecule inhibitor 9a was used to further assess its functional role in ferroptosis. In vivo, an OIIRR mouse model was established. Hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining, tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) staining, and micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) were used to assess root resorption. The expression of NCOA4, FTH1, and GPX4 in periodontal tissues was evaluated via immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence. Ferrostatin-1 (Fer-1), a ferroptosis inhibitor, was administered intraperitoneally to investigate its therapeutic effect on OIIRR.
Force comparison between Perfitalign 4D aligners and thermoformed aligners for mandibular incisor retraction: an in vitro study
Xu J, Ma Y, Qiang R, Fan X, Zhang M and Jin Z
To quantitatively compare the orthodontic forces exerted during mandibular incisor retraction by Perfitalign 4D aligners and thermoformed aligners over a 60-hour dynamic monitoring period, assess tooth movement trends, and investigate the effects of shape-memory properties on force characteristics.
MTH herbst appliance, class II elastics and Paolone-Kaitsas functional appliance in mixed dentition class II patients: a retrospective cohort study
Boggio A, Paolone MG, Gotti E, Manni A, Gastaldi G, Castellana F, Kaitsas R and Cozzani M
It is generally accepted that the ideal time to benefit from functional therapy in Class II patients is during the circumpubertal growth period (CVM 3-4). However, in severe cases, early intervention during the mixed dentition phase may be indicated, particularly to reduce the risk of dental trauma and to protect the child from potential bullying. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of the Manni Telescopic Herbst (MTH) appliance in young patients with mixed dentition, comparing the outcomes with two control groups: one treated with Class II elastics and a Wilson arch, and the other with a removable functional appliance (Paolone-Kaitsas, PK).
Adolescents' adherence to intraoral removable appliances: a scoping review
Tiwari A, Fagundes NCF, Perez-Garcia A and Flores-Mir C
Adolescents' lack of adherence to intra-oral removable appliances (IORAs) can lead to poor treatment outcomes. Available literature on this topic hasn't been comprehensively summarized. Existing reviews often combine data from various age groups, lack a standardized conceptual definition of adherence to IORAs, and offer limited evaluation of interventions aimed at improving adherence among adolescents. This scoping review aims to map the breadth and depth of the literature on adolescents' adherence to IORAs and identify research gaps for developing tailored interventions.
Correction to: Skeletal versus conventional anchorage in dentofacial orthopedics: an international modified Delphi consensus study
Franchi L, Statie MD, Clauser T, Migliorati M, Ugolini A, Bucci R, Rongo R, Nucera R, Portelli M, McNamara JA, Nieri M, Akyalcin S, Angelieri F, Cantarella D, Cattaneo P, Cevidanes L, Contardo L, Cornelis M, De Gabriele R, Mir CF, Garib D, Iodice G, Giudice AL, Lombardo L, Ludwig B, Luzi C, Meazzini MC, Ngan P, Nguyen T, Papadopoulou A, Papageorgiou SN, Park JH, Ruf S, Souki B, Wilmes B and Winsauer H
Mechanisms of primary failure of eruption: a new model of multidimensional framework
Hu X, Guo A, Xie Y and Mo S
Primary failure of eruption (PFE) is an uncommon autosomal dominant disorder predominantly defined by an impaired tooth eruption mechanism. It is characterized by a unilateral or bilateral open bite in the posterior area and incomplete or absent tooth eruption. Nonetheless, its etiology remains unclear. Current studies indicate that PFE may be directly associated with mutations in several genes, including parathyroid hormone receptor 1 (PTH1R), lysine (K)-specific methyltransferase 2 C (KMT2C), and transmembrane protein 119 (TMEM119). Despite the growing research on PFE genetics, no cohesive conceptual framework exists to integrate the known genetic information. This review seeks to address this gap and introduce a novel pathogenic model. The model posits that the normal eruption of teeth relies on the precise equilibrium between "The Pro-Eruptive Axis" and "The Anti-Resistance Axis," with the Dental Follicle (DF) serving as the central regulatory hub of this mechanism. This research will systematically categorize PFE-related genes and classify their pathogenic mechanisms as "insufficient motivation" or "excessive resistance" in eruption. On this basis, this review will analyze in depth the crosstalk of key signaling pathways (such as PTH, Wnt, TGF-β, and RANKL/OPG), investigate the complexity of genetic influences and temporal factors in elucidating phenotypic variability, enhance the existing classification framework into a dynamic, multi-dimensional comprehensive network, and ultimately suggest precise diagnostic approaches and prospective therapeutic targets based on pathogenic mechanisms from a translational medicine perspective. By constructing this integrated pathophysiological model, we aim to establish a robust theoretical framework for investigating molecular mechanisms and clinical diagnosis and formulating novel individualized treatment options for PFE.
Prediction of bone recovery after iatrogenic dehiscences/fenestrations caused by lingual bonded retainers: a clinical report
Abu Arqub S, Al-Moghrabi D, Sanders D, Uribe F and Huang G
The "periodontal ligament-periosteum (PDL-PS) sandwich hypothesis" has been proposed to explain the mechanism of bone recovery around roots moved outside their bony housing. This hypothesis suggests that the presence of the periosteum and periodontal ligament facilitates bone recovery in such cases. This retrospective case series examines three adult patients who developed iatrogenic dehiscences and fenestrations of the anterior teeth due to the placement of fixed lingual retainers after orthodontic treatment. Each patient then underwent orthodontic retreatment aimed at repositioning the roots back into the alveolar housing. Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans and intraoral photographs taken before (T2) and after (T3) retreatment were used to evaluate bone recovery. To test the PDL-PS sandwich hypothesis, predictions of bone recovery were made based on T2 parameters and the root movements achieved during retreatment. The observed bony recovery at T3 was then compared with these predictions. Roots that were partially or fully repositioned into the original alveolar housing exhibited partial to complete bony recovery. In contrast, teeth with minimal root movement back into bone showed limited or no recovery. In cases with pre-existing gingival recession, bone recovery occurred only apical to the areas of recession, even with favorable root movements. Additionally, the dimensions of the alveolar housing remained stable as roots moved through the alveolar bone, supporting the theory that roots move through alveolar bone, rather than with bone, in adults. These findings highlight the need for evidence-based clinical strategies to guide the management of inadvertent tooth movement caused by orthodontic appliances or retainers, with particular attention to the potential for bone recovery when repositioning teeth into their original alveolar housing.
Biomechanical effects of attachment designs in maxillary first molar mesialization with clear aligners: a finite element study
Vatansever R, Gurel HG and Koc O
Clear aligners face biomechanical limitations in complex tooth movements, particularly first molar mesialization, despite attachment use. Finite element analysis (FEA) can elucidate optimal attachment designs for force delivery.
Incisor position objective for favorable profile in orthodontic camouflage treatment of skeletal class II cases
Wu Y, Mei L, Zhu N, Abdulghani EA, Zhou X, Zheng W and Li Y
This study aimed to screen favorable and unfavorable profile outcomes in orthodontic camouflage treatment of skeletal Class II cases, based on which to identify the reference line and the associated value for the optimal incisor position objective (IPO) in such cases.