The Effect of Varied Positioning of Mini-screw, Anterior Retraction Hook, and Resultant Force Vector on Efficient En-Masse Retraction Using Finite Element Method: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Objective: The objective of this systematic review was to assess the available evidence to evaluate the effectiveness of en-masse retraction design with mini-screw with respect to the retraction hook and mini-implant position and height. Methods: The following electronic databases were searched till July 31, 2020: Pro-Quest Dissertation Abstracts and Thesis database Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), PubMed, Google Scholar, US National Library of Medicine, and National Research Register. En-masse retractions with anterior retraction hooks assisted by mini-implant three-dimensional finite element method (3D FEM) models were included in the study. The selected studies were assessed for the risk of bias using the Cochrane Collaboration risk of bias tool. The “traffic plot” and “weighted plot” risk of bias distribution were designed using the ROBVIS tool. The authors extracted and analyzed the data. Results: Twelve studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria. The risks of biases were low for 9 studies and high for 3 studies. Data on mini-implant, retraction hook, and the center of resistance/force vectors were extracted. The outcomes of the included studies were heterogeneous. Conclusions: According to the currently available literature review for successful bodily en-masse tooth movement, the force vector should pass through the center of resistance, which can be achieved by the clinical judgment of placing a mini-screw and an anterior retraction hook. The force from an implant placed at a higher level from the anterior retraction hook will cause intrusion; an implant placed at the medium level shows bodily movement; and an implant placed at a lower level shows tipping forces in consolidated arches.