What does “Orthodontic miniscrew” mean?
Orthodontic mini-screws are small screws that pass through the gums and are temporarily installed in the bone to provide a fixation point for the force needed to move teeth.
Used as an anchor point instead of other teeth
When moving a tooth, if you use the surrounding teeth as a support point, those teeth can also move. Mini-screws provide separate fixing points to help move in the required direction. It has a different purpose from prosthetic implants, which replace missing teeth.
Installation and usage process
The required location and nearby roots and bone are assessed, and the miniscrew is usually placed under local anesthesia. It is connected to the appliance to assist tooth movement and removed when its role is complete. It is not needed in every orthodontic treatment; the anchorage required is compared with other methods.
Clean the surrounding area and check for shaking
Keep the area around the miniscrew clean as instructed, for example with a small toothbrush. Loosening, inflammation, or pain can occur, and removal or repositioning may be needed. Do not tighten or move it yourself; report changes to your dentist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are mini screws implants that last a lifetime?
No. It is a temporary fixation device for tooth movement and is removed when it has completed its required role.
Does a loose miniscrew mean orthodontic treatment cannot continue?
The stability and cause of loosening are assessed, and removal and replacement or another anchorage method may be considered. It does not mean the entire orthodontic treatment is impossible.
Questions needed to understand orthodontic miniscrews
Learn what the term means and how it relates to your dental condition.
- Sufficient understanding
Which tooth movement requires this anchorage point?
Explanation and evidenceEvaluate whether separate fixation is necessary to reduce unnecessary movement of surrounding teeth.
British Orthodontic Society · Orthodontic Mini-screws - A choice suited to your condition
What are the post-installation management and removal plans?
Explanation and evidenceCheck the surrounding area for cleaning and stability and plan for removal at the end of the role.
American Association of Orthodontists · Glossary of Orthodontic Terms
