A novel approach of torque control for maxillary displaced incisors

Abstract

Effective torque control is crucial for the successful treatment of impacted incisors; however, torque control is often a challenge with the use of conventional bracket systems, especially when the adjacent teeth require opposite torque managements. A novel approach of torque control for adjacent anterior teeth is introduced in this case report. A 12-year-old boy had an impacted maxillary right central incisor with the adjacent teeth severely displaced. The treatment plan was to regain space and pull the impacted incisor into the dentition. An upper removable appliance was first used to regain space for the impacted central incisor, followed by a spontaneous eruption of the impacted incisor. Subsequently, fixed appliances were bonded to level and align the dentition. However, the crown of the maxillary right central incisor was found to be tipped lingually, while the maxillary right lateral incisor was tipped labially. Traditional torque control, including torque bend and the use of a Warren spring, were first used for the correction, but they were ineffective due to the overlap of the root apex of the maxillary central incisor and lateral incisor. After the roots were separated with a V-shaped curve, auxiliary brackets were bonded on the gingival one-third areas of the maxillary incisors and canine with nickel-titanium wires used for the torque control. This approach of using the auxiliary brackets and wires was demonstrated to be efficient and effective in the torque control of adjacent anterior teeth with opposite torque control requirements. The final result and the 2-year follow-up records demonstrated the proper torque of anterior teeth and good and stable dental and profile esthetics.