A CBCT comparison of anterior root resorption in SureSmile and conventional edgewise treatments.

Aim: To utilize cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) to analyze the amount of linear root resorption that occurs in maxillary and mandibular permanent incisors during orthodontic treatment when comparing the SureSmile technique with conventional edgewise treatment. In addition, patient and treatment factors that may be correlated with root resorption were studied.

Methods: The records of 28 patients (14 SureSmile and 14 edgewise) treated in an orthodontic office were used for this study. CBCTs were taken of all patients prior to (T1) and after completion of orthodontic treatment (T2). Total tooth length of the permanent incisors were measured on the CBCTs at T1 and T2. Root resorption was calculated for each tooth by subtracting T1 from T2.

Results: No statistically significant differences in mean root resorption (MRR) were found for the permanent incisors when comparing SureSmile patients with conventional edgewise patients. The MRR for each tooth was found to be less than 1 mm when using either treatment modality. Subjects with increased resorption included Class II malocclusion, severe overjet, and treatment time greater than or equal to 25 months. Sex and the use of Class II elastics showed no significant differences in mean root resorption.

Conclusion: No differences were found in root resorption of the permanent incisors when comparing SureSmile and edgewise treatments.