Attempted orthodontic movement in the presence of suspected ankylosis.

A 37-year-old man with suspected ankylosis ("submerged" teeth, radiographically obliterated periodontal membranes, and sharp or ringing percussion tests) was subjected to attempted orthodontic movement. The maxillary canine and posterior segments were chosen as treatment areas. While the terms "light" and "heavy" are relative, forces ranging from 6 to 24 ounces were variants great enough in the areas treated to have elicited movement if movement were possible. After continuous forces had been applied for 110 days, measurements showed no movement in either maxillary quadrant.