Patients’ and orthodontists’ perceptions of miniplates used for temporary skeletal anchorage: A prospective study

Introduction: Temporary skeletal anchorage is a relatively recent addition to orthodontic treatment. Surgical miniplates, modified with intraoral attachments, provide an alternative to miniscrews for skeletal anchorage. In this study, we wanted to determine patients’ and providers’ perceptions of miniplate use during orthodontic treatment. Methods: Consecutive patients having miniplates placed as part of their treatment completed questionnaires about their experiences during surgery and orthodontic treatment. A total of 200 miniplates were placed for 97 patients. The 30 orthodontists treating these patients also completed questionnaires concerning miniplate success, handling complexity, and whether these devices simplified treatment. Results: The success rate was 92.5%. The devices were well tolerated by the patients. After a year, 72% of the patients reported that they did not mind having the implant, and 82% said that the surgical experience was better than expected, with little or no pain. The most frequent problems were postsurgical swelling, lasting 5 days on average, and cheek irritation experienced initially by more than a third of the patients, but it lessened over time. The clinicians reported that these devices were easy to use and greatly simplified orthodontic treatment. Conclusions: Miniplates are well accepted by patients and providers and are a safe and effective adjunct for complex orthodontic treatments.