Two-dimensional radiographs versus cone-beam computed tomography in planning mini-implant placement: A systematic review

Abstract

Background This study aimed to compare two-dimensional radiographs and cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) images for mini-implant planning. Material and Methods A search was performed in PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Library and Google Scholar electronic databases according to PIRD strategy, on September 11, 2021. In vivo studies that compared two-dimensional imaging with CBCT for mini-implant planning were selected. The methodological quality of each study was assessed using the QUADAS-2 tool. Results The initial search identified 441 papers. Five studies were added following a manual research. Of the total 446 studies, 40 were selected after title evaluation, 29 remained after abstract evaluation, and 11 were left after full-text analysis. Final screening yielded a total of four studies that composed the narrative synthesis of this systematic review. When comparing the imaging systems for palatal mini-implants, lateral radiographs (LRs) showed approximately the same measurements of bone quantity as those of CBCT, hence bearing no influence on placement site selection. In determining image suitability for interradicular mini-implants, two-dimensional radiographs underestimated the available space. Conclusions Lateral radiography is sufficient to quantify the available bone for planning mini-implants installed on the palate, in the median region of upper first premolars. CBCT enhances interradicular mini-implant planning by aiding in implantation site selection, and improving the installation success rate. Key words: Systematic Review, Cone beam computed tomography, Radiography, Orthodontic mini-implant, Dental planning.

Tomographic dimensions for the installation of rapid maxillary expansion mini-implants in different age groups

“…To perform RME, the mini-implants need to be placed in the region paramedial to the palatine raphe. 17 By comparing the dimensions of the upper jaw between different age groups using computed tomography in this region, it could provide more information to the orthodontist about the base dimensions in both hard and soft tissue to take into account when selecting mini-implants for RME.…”