Effects on the periodontium following corticotomy-facilitated orthodontics. Case reports.

This report describes the corticotomy surgical technique used in conjunction with orthodontic therapy and its effect on the periodontal status of the involved teeth. The surgical procedure included intracrevicular incisions and elevation of buccal and lingual mucoperiosteal flaps. Buccal and lingual vertical grooves penetrating the cortical bone were then made between the roots. These grooves were extended from just below the interproximal alveolar bone margin to beyond the apex levels of the teeth. Buccal and lingual horizontal grooves joined the apical extensions of the vertical grooves. The orthodontic appliance was activated immediately upon wound closure. Plaque scores, probing depths, and probing attachment levels were recorded before the surgical procedure and after the completion of the orthodontic treatment in 5 patients. The results showed that the corticotomy procedure caused minimal changes in the periodontal attachment apparatus.