The Effect of Second Molar Extraction and Septumotomy on Intraoral Molar Distalization - A Pilot Study

This study aimed to evaluate the combined effects of second mo tar extraction and interradicular septum removal on molar distalization, an intraoral distalization mechanism was used, emitting interrupted forces. The study group consisted of 12 Class II adolescents (6 females and 6 males), with a mean age of 15.17. Dental effects were analyzed on lateral cephalograms by means of acrylic caps with indicator wires at 3 stages: Pre-treatment, post-distalization, and 2 months after the distalization. Maxillary first premolar and first molar rotations and intermolar distance changes were evaluated from study models, taken at the same periods. All subjects were extracted the upper second molars, and interradicular septa were removed. At the same time, the mesial socket wall was cut vertically and horizontally. Distalization began the next day with bilaterally positioned compact RPE screws, which were activated once in two days. The mean time for the distalization was 3.25 months. Results showed maxillary first molars distalized 3.21 mm with 7.7° tipping and 4.2° mesial rotation. The anchorage loss was 3.41 mm for premolars, and 4.41 mm for incisors, which was reduced to 0.34 mm in premolars, and 2.16 mm in incisors during the post-distalization period. The inter-molar distance increased 4.42mm during distalization.