Evaluation of C-lingual retractor effects on anterior teeth using cone beam computed tomographic imaging

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to analyze the en-masse retraction effects on the upper canines and incisors in Class II division 1 malocclusions using the C-lingual retractor appliance on these teeth by means of cone beam tomography imaging (CBCT). The sample consisted of 12 patients aged between 18-25 years with Class II division 1 malocclusion collected from the department of Orthodontics and Orthopedics in Hama University. Average treatment period was 9 months. Pre- and post-treatment CBCTs were taken, and the related variables were compared. Results: The current study showed significant retraction of the upper incisors using the C-Lingual Retractor Appliance with an average of (3.24 mm), with a vertical resorption of the alveolar crest with an average of (0.2 mm) from the labial aspect and (2.15 mm) from the palatal aspect, and a minimum root resorption of (1.58mm) in central incisors and (0.58 mm) in the canines, and a preferred torque control, where the average change of torque is (5.24°) in central incisors and (1.18°) in the canines, and a minimum loss of anchorage, with an average of (0.16mm) of upper first molar mesial drift. Correction of Class II division 1 malocclusion using the C-lingual Retractor appliance can be achieved without any significant damage to the supporting alveolar bone or inducing any significant root Resorption with preferred Torque control of the incisors and minimal anchorage loss.