Background Bimaxillary dental protrusion is common in many ethnic groups and is generally treated by the extraction of all first premolars. However, temporary anchorage devices (TADs) are currently gaining popularity and most studies have focused on anchorage loss, treatment duration, mini-implant success and failure rates, pain, discomfort and root resorption. Few studies have focused on the clinical effectiveness of implants for the intrusion and retraction of anterior teeth. Objectives To assess the clinical use of orthodontic mini-implants for the intrusion and retraction of anterior teeth. Methods A systematic review of articles selected from PUBMED and Google Scholar was carried out to determine the clinical use of orthodontic mini-implants for anterior tooth intrusion and retraction. Additional studies were hand searched to identify and include clinical trials, prospective and retrospective studies, while excluding finite element method (FEM) studies and case reports. A total of 598 articles were identified, of which 37 papers met the inclusion criteria and, following the elimination of duplicates, 20 articles were selected. Results Orthodontic mini-implants are more efficient for intrusion and retraction when compared to conventional intraoral and extra-oral anchorage devices. A greater amount of intrusion and retraction is achieved when mini-implants are placed between the first and second premolars without using any specific intrusive mechanics. Conclusion The present review highlights the clinical effectiveness of orthodontic mini-implants for anterior tooth intrusion and retraction and the results suggest that orthodontic mini-implants are more effective than other conventional methods of anchorage reinforcement.

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