Evaluation of root repair using an environmental scanning electron microscope after intentional contact with microscrew

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the amount of root repair that took place at varying intervals of 1 day, 2 weeks, 4 weeks and 8 weeks after intentional contact with microscrews. The results were evaluated by an environmental scanning electron microscope study (E-SEM). Material and Methods: Ten orthodontic patients with 2 maxillary and 2 mandibular first premolars (40 premolars) to be extracted as part of the orthodontic treatment were included in this study (age 18–25 years). The position of the roots of the 4 premolars to be extracted was clinically determined and under local anesthesia, microscrew implants were placed in such a way that they directly hit the root from the buccal aspect. Implants were removed immediately after the above-mentioned procedure was performed. On the same day, premolar of the 1st quadrant (Group I) was extracted. Premolar of the 2nd quadrant (Group II) was extracted 2 weeks later. Premolar of the 3rd quadrant (Group III) was extracted 4 weeks later and premolar of the 4th quadrant (Group IV) was extracted 8 weeks later, from the day of intentional damage. Results: Significant changes were observed in the deposition of cementum over 8 weeks which were analyzed using ESEM under magnifications of × 50, × 200, × 500, and × 5000. Conclusion: The damaged root surfaces due to intentional contact with microscrews showed swift repair and healing within 8 weeks. In case, the root is damaged due to improper placement technique or wrong biomechanics which may result in the implant touching the root surface, a minimum healing period of 8–10 weeks is advocated before commencing further tooth movement.