Publication:

Use of orthodontic mini-screws among orthodontists in Saudi Arabia

Background Orthodontic anchorage is a technique used to avoid undesired tooth movement. The miniature screw (mini-screw) implant is an orthodontic innovation that was introduced to circumvent the limitations of conventional anchorage systems. Mini-screws, known as temporary anchorage devices (TADs), give clinicians good control over tooth movement in 3 dimensions and can assist orthodontists in anchorage-demanding cases.

Methods A questionnaire was distributed by online survey using SurveyMonkey and on paper during orthodontic meetings in Saudi Arabia. Collected data were analyzed using SPSS statistical software (version 23, IBM). A 2-way cross-tabulation and Fisher’s exact or Pearson chi-square tests were used to evaluate statistically significant differences. A P-value 3 weeks after implantation. Regarding the method of placement, 63.2% of practitioners used radiography for placement guidance/confirmation, 9.8% used a self-made guide, and 8.3% did not use a guide.

Conclusions Lack of education and training are major reasons that practitioners do not use orthodontic mini-screws in Saudi Arabia. Increased efforts to organize seminars and workshops may motivate practitioners to incorporate mini-screw usage into routine practice.