Evaluation of Micro-osteoperforations to Accelerate Orthodontic Tooth Movement

All micro-osteoperforations were performed only one time in the experimental group on the same day of the installation of the upper incisors' retraction mechanics. Perforations were performed with an individualized surgical guide and a 1.6 mm diameter stainless steel surgical drill perpendicular to the alveolar bone, 3 mm deep on the buccal surface, and 5 mm, on the palate. The depth of the perforations was controlled and standardized by a cursor developed and patented by the research group. Two micro-osteoperforations were aligned vertically distally from each upper incisor. Due to the proximity of the roots in the cervical third, only the most apical perforation was performed between the two central incisors. The first perforation was performed 6 mm away from the gingival margin, and the second, 5 mm from the first, in the vertical direction.