Interarch Traction Strategy for Palatal Cuspid Impactions.

AIM AND OBJECTIVE

To disimpact a palatally impacted canine using a novel, compliance-dependent technique.

BACKGROUND

Orthodontic traction of palatally impacted teeth warrants careful mechanical strategies to avoid complications that include r oot damage to adjacent teeth and r esorptions. Sound biomechanical control to avoid these side effects is considered paramount in planning the traction.

TECHNIQUE

The palatally impacted canine was pulled into the arch with the aid of a modified power arm on the exposed canine and a miniscrew on the lower arch.

CONCLUSION

The impacted canine was successfully brought into occlusion within 11 months.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

This paper highlights the use of a simple strategy using interarch mechanics and temporary anchorage devices (TADs) to aid in the safe mechanical eruption of impacted palatal canines without the need to bend complex wire designs.