RESUMO
OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to measure tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) levels around miniscrews used for anchorage during a 3-month period of canine distalization. METHODS: Sixteen patients (8 boys, 8 girls; mean age, 16.6 +/- 2.4 years) whose upper first premolars were extracted for orthodontic treatment were included in this study. Miniscrews were used as an anchorage unit in canine distalization. Thirty-two (32) miniscrew implants were placed bilaterally in the alveolar bone between the maxillary second premolars and first molars. The treatment, miniscrew, and control groups comprised upper canines, miniscrew implants, and upper first premolars, respectively. Peri-miniscrew implant crevicular fluid and gingival crevicular fluid were obtained before applying force and at 1, 24, and 48 hours, and at 7 and 21 days, and 3 months after applying force. RESULTS: During the 3-month period, the TNF-alpha levels increased significantly at 24 hours only in the treatment group (p < 0.01). In the miniscrew and control groups, there were no statistically significant changes. No significant differences were observed between groups. CONCLUSIONS: Miniscrews can be conveniently used for anchorage in orthodontics.