Mini-implants, a major innovation in the orthodontic practice in the last 10 years, appeared to overcome the limitations of the ordinary extra and intra oral orthodontic anchorage systems. These devices provide maximum anchorage with minimum cooperation from patients.
Objectives: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the frequency mini-implant use among orthodontists in the city of Goiania, Brazil and also to find out about their perception of the main indications, their advantages/disadvantages, failure rate, and how the training on the use of these devices was being provided.
Material and Methods: The research involved the application of a questionnaire with 11 questions sent to orthodontists listed in the Regional Council of Dentistry of Goias. 127 questionnaires were sent by mail and 64 orthodontists participated in the study (40 men and 24 women).
Results and Conclusions: Most orthodontists (78.1%) use mini-implants as accessories of skeletal anchorage. In this group, 26% consider their results excellent, 60% good and 14% average. Most orthodontists related factors which may relate to their failure: loss of initial stability (62.1%), perimplantar mucositis (55.2%), fractures (13.8%) and overload in activation. The main indications were: intrusion of molars (88%), mesialization of subsequent teeth (76%) and retraction of anterior teeth (66%). The main advantage was the reduction of side effects and decrease the dependence on patient cooperation. Orthodontists are being exposed to the use of mini-implants mainly by the scientific literature and continuing education courses.