Insertion torque of orthodontic miniscrews according to changes in shape, diameter and length.

OBJECTIVE To determine the variation in the insertion torque of orthodontic miniscrews according to the screw length, diameter, and shape. MATERIALS AND METHODS The maximum insertion torque (MIT) was measured using a torque tester at a constant speed of 3 rotations per minute. Cylindrical and taper type of miniscrews (Biomaterials Korea Inc, Seoul, Korea) with different lengths, diameters, and pitches were tested. RESULTS The results showed that the insertion torque significantly increased with increasing screw length (P < .01). In particular, there was a significant increase in torque with increasing screw length and diameter (P < .01). An analysis of the serial insertion torque of miniscrews revealed the cylindrical type screw to have much higher insertion torque at the incomplete screw thread, while the taper type screw showed a much higher insertion torque at the final inclination part of the screw thread. The insertion torque was affected by the outer diameter, length, and shape in that order. CONCLUSIONS An increase in screw diameter can efficiently reinforce the initial stability of the miniscrew, but the proximity of the root at the implanted site should be considered.