Enhancement of molar anchorage with X Buccal Tube

Objective To evaluate the clinical effect of X Buccal Tube (XBT) on preservation of molar anchorage.Methods 11 patients treated with XBT were selected.Study models of upper dentition were taken before and after orthodontic treatment.Linear and angular movements of upper first molars were evaluated via 3D model analysis and cephalometric superimposition respectively.Results Average movement of 22 upper first molars was 1.81° distal tipping,2.38 mm mesial movement,0.73 mm extrusion and 0.46° buccal tipping,which could meet the request of maximum anchorage.No statistically significant difference was found between corresponding measurements of 3D model analysis and cephalometric superimposition using the t-test for paired samples (P＞0.05).Conclusions Application of XBT could be an effective and convenient way to preserve molar anchorage without using extra affiliated anchorage enhancement appliances. Key words: X Buccal Tube; Molar anchorage