Labial root torque: effect on the maxilla and incisor root apex.

This study was designed to determine the effectiveness of labial root torque on anterior nasomaxillary development. Quantification was made of the angular and linear changes in Downs' point A (representing midsagittal basal bone) and incisor point A (representing the dentoalveolar bone) and any concomitant incisor root resorption. The study was divided into two parts: part 1--to determine the anatomic configuration of the premaxillary region by use of laminagraphy on skulls, and part 2--to use the morphologic landmarks found in part 1 to assess the development of the nasomaxillary complex in maxillary retrusive patients. The clinical study involved 17 maxillary retrusive patients, aged 8.0 to 15.7 years, who had been treated for a period between 0.31 and 3.70 years with edgewise advancing mechanics. Clinical results indicate that during the first phase of orthodontic treatment with labial root torque, encompassing a 0.63-year mean treatment period, a greater rate of advancement of Downs' point A was produced when compared with normal growth. The skeletal convexity increased, whereas normal growth straightened the profile. Incisor point A advanced at a greater rate than Downs' point A, suggesting that treatment caused a larger dentoalveolar effect than the effect on midsagittal basal bone. When treatment was extended to 1.57 years, similar changes were found but at a reduced rate. Overall apical root resorption was 12.7%/year. Sex and age were not found to have any correlation to the amount of apical root loss.