Orthodontic Mini‐Implants in Practice: Insights from Iranian Specialist Orthodontists
Ali Borzabadi‐FarahaniABSTRACT
Objective
To examine the usage of orthodontic mini‐implants or temporary anchorage devices (TADs) among specialist orthodontists in Iran.
Methodology
A web‐based 17‐question, cross‐sectional survey was conducted from October 2025 to January 2026. Distributed via mixed‐mode electronic recruitment, it assessed demographics, TAD usage patterns, annual placement numbers, caseload percentage, brands, preferred sites and lengths (6–12 mm for 1.6 mm diameter TADs), training, force application timing, anaesthesia oral hygiene instructions, indications and complications.
Results
Among 148 respondents (16% response rate; 89 male, 59 female), 96.6% used TADs. Placement frequency varied: 25.7% placed < 10/year, 20.3% > 50/year. For 46.6%, TAD cases comprised < 10% of caseload; only 3.4% reported > 50%. Usage was significantly higher in adults than in mixed dentition or adolescents ( p < 0.001). Clinicians preferred posterior regions over anterior alveolar sites, with maxillary sites more popular than mandibular. Majority (81.5%, always or mostly) loaded TADs immediately. The most preferred indications included non‐extraction posterior distalisation (49.3%), precise extraction space closure (46.6%) and posterior intrusion (42.5%). Least common were skeletal maxillary expansion (7.5%), maxillary protraction (15.6%) and uprighting mesially tilted lower first molars (20.3%). Preferred lengths: 6 mm anterior mandible (62.4%); 8 mm posterior mandible (61.1%), anterior maxilla (58.7%) and posterior maxilla (56.3%). Common regular complications (always/mostly) were pain (13.0%), soft tissue irritation (11.6%), failure/loosening (9.5%) and chronic inflammation/mucosal overgrowth (8.2%); serious complications (nerve/root damage, sinus perforation, aspiration/ingestion) were rare.
Conclusion
TAD use is widespread among surveyed Iranian orthodontists, with distinct preferences for posterior sites, 8 mm length, immediate loading and select indications, accompanied by low serious complication rates.