A NOVEL TREATMENT APPROACH FOR EXTRUDED MAXILLARY MOLAR

Two approaches are currently used to correct overerupted/extruded posterior teeth, the “prosthodontic” and the “orthodontic” one. This report presents a novel orthodontic approach for selective molar intrusion. In two females (26 and 20 years), a modified transpalatal arch (TPA, equivalent to a couple with a 30 g net force) was used to move the tooth bodily. A 50 g force was applied to the overerupted maxillary second molar by means of a short length elastomeric chain from the helix to the palatal sheath and replaced every three weeks. Sufficient intrusion of the maxillary second molar was obtained within two months. For intrusion of a single tooth, a modified TPA together with a short length elastomeric chain is a non-invasive and cost-effective alternative to traditional edgewise mechanics, temporary anchorage devices, or removable appliances.