# Methods of Orthodontic Microimplant Surface Modifications Providing Antibacterial Properties: A Systematic Review

## TL;DR

This systematic review explores methods to modify orthodontic microimplants to reduce bacterial risks and improve stability.

## Contribution

The paper systematically evaluates surface modification techniques to enhance antibacterial properties of orthodontic microimplants.

## Key findings

- ZnO, antibiotics, and chlorhexidine are among the promising surface modification methods.
- Only three studies were rated as Low Risk of Bias, indicating a need for more rigorous research.
- Plasma polymerization with PEG and selenium are novel approaches for antibacterial enhancement.

## Abstract

The use of orthodontic microimplants in daily practice is now an indispensable part of orthodontic treatment. Unfortunately, the use of skeletal anchorage is associated with a relatively high risk of loss of microimplant stability because of inflammation developing in the surrounding soft tissues. The aim of this systematic review is to identify possible methods of orthodontic microimplant surface modifications providing antibacterial properties. The PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and Cochrane Reviews databases were searched, and a literature review was conducted. The search was performed between 1 December 2024 and 31 December 2024. The authors used the PICO format to facilitate the search of abstracts and ensure that the relevant components of the question are well defined. The systematic review was written based on the principles detailed in PRISMA. The quality of the papers was assessed based on a tool developed by the authors. Three papers were rated Low Risk of Bias (RoB), four were rated Moderate RoB, and three were rated High RoB. All of the studies presented a method to increase the antibacterial properties of microimplants. More research with a unified methodology is necessary to confirm the effectiveness of the analyzed methods. ZnO, antibiotics, chlorhexidine, silver compounds, selenium, HA, and PEG polymerization plasma represent an interesting perspective for improving the antibacterial properties of orthodontic microimplants.