Maxillary molar distalisation using palatal TAD-supported devices in the treatment of Class II malocclusion: a systematic review

Abstract Objectives To evaluate the quantitative effects of palatal Temporary Anchorage Device (TAD)-supported appliances for the distalisation of maxillary molars in Class II patients. Methods An electronic search was conducted in PubMed, CENTRAL, Scopus and the Web of Knowledge databases using specific key terms. The selection process was independently conducted by two researchers to identify relevant articles, published in English until January 2021. After the removal of duplicate articles and data extraction according to the PICOS scheme, the methodological quality of the included papers was ranked on a 9-point scale, from low to high quality. Results The initial search identified 14,830 articles, 536 of which were selected by title and abstract. After full-text reading, eleven articles were selected. The quality of evidence was moderate for ten studies, but high for one study. A total of 230 subjects in the permanent dentition were analysed. The mean molar distalisation values ranged from 3.0 millimetres (mm) to 5.3 mm. The mean molar distal tipping varied from −1.20° to 11.24°. The mean mesial movement of premolars showed negative values. Conclusions In Class II patients, palatally placed TAD-supported devices are more effective in maxillary molar distalisation compared to conventional appliances, thereby minimising molar distal tipping and preventing premolar anchorage loss during the distalisation mechanics.