Effect of flapless piezopuncture on maxillary canine distalization. A preliminary randomized controlled trial

Several methods have been described to shorten orthodontic treatments, but the main disadvantage is their invasiveness. Animal studies have shown that piezopuncture can accelerate the rate of tooth movement without causing collateral damage. Objective: To evaluate the clinical outcome, in terms of safety and efficacy, of a flapless piezopuncture on maxillary canine distalization. Methods: A split-mouth randomized clinical trial was carried out on five patients. Piezopuncture was performed on a random side of the maxillary arch to assess the rate of canine movement on the stimulated side, compared to the non-stimulated control side after 15 (T1), 30 (T2), and 60 (T3) days. Also, immediate side effects and changes in buccal bone thickness after one year were assessed. Results: Distalization on the intervention versus control side at T1 was 1.24±0.21mm versus 0.64±0.33mm (p=0.005); at T2 it was 2.00±0.28mm versus 1.36±0.49mm (p=0.046); and at T3 it was 4.28±0.66mm versus 3.65±0.88mm (p=0.102). No adverse effects related to the surgical procedure were observed or reported by patients. The thickness of the buccal bone plate showed no significant changes. Conclusions: Flapless piezopuncture accelerates the rate of tooth movement in orthodontic patients over the first 15 days and its effect declines over the next 45 days.