[Magnets in orthodontics : which indications, which effects ? A review of the literature]

Abstract

The first publication on the use of magnets in dentistry for stabilizing prosthetics on implants dates back to 1953. Clinical development in orthodontics, without having experienced a real boom, has increased over the past ten years, in parallel with the improvement of the device. The objective of this review of the literature is to synthesize clinical applications and reported iatrogenic effects. A systematic review of the international literature from the Pubmed and Cochrane databases from 1999 to July 2018 was conducted which resulted in 36 articles. The factors studied are the indications and contraindications, the means or procedure, as well as the iatrogenic effects. Original cases are presented. The correction of infraclusions is the main indication, followed by the correction of anteroposterior malocclusions and then the correction of over-erupted teeth. Traction of an impacted teeth and diastema closure have not been found in recent publications probably because of the low benefit-risk ratio. The future no longer seems to be buried magnets or left in the long term in the mouth considering there seems to be concerns in terms of toxicity (or even the risk in terms of vital prognosis). The magnets could offer interesting perspectives to manage the current limits of the aligners, the movements of anterior egression, rotation and previous torque being still problematic...

Keywords: Adverse effects; Clear aligners; Magnet; Open bite; Orthodontic retainer; Orthodontics; Toxicity; Unerupted tooth.