What is the main purpose of miniplates in orthodontic practice?

 # What is the main purpose of miniplates in orthodontic practice?

A. To manage skeletal discrepancy without dental adverse effects 

B. To serve as an alternative anchorage system for mini-implants 

C. To withstand torsional force 

D. To anchor soft tissue to root apices

The correct answer is: A. To manage skeletal discrepancy without dental adverse effects. 

Miniplates are an alternative form of orthodontic TADs. They are anchored on skeletal bone using monocortical titanium screws and are indicated for orthopaedic traction to manage skeletal discrepancy without dental adverse effects. They can also be used as an alternative anchorage system when mini-implant insertion is unsatisfactory. While miniplates can be used as an alternative anchorage system, their primary purpose is not specifically to serve as an alternative to mini-implants.

Unlike mini-implants, miniplates can resist various types of force applications and have a lower failure rate. They are able to withstand force with a magnitude of 400–500 g. Additionally, the portion of a miniplate covered by soft tissue can be anchored apically to root apices, helping to avoid potential root damage and reduce soft tissue irritation.