DAY 1: Theoretical Foundations and Planning

Focus: Comprehensive lectures, clinical case analysis, and conceptual mastery.

• Foundations of Cortical Anchorage

Objective: Establish a solid theoretical understanding of cortical anchorage, its variations, and clinical indications. topics covered: types of cortical anchorage and their biomechanical rationale. Inter-radicular mini-implants: indications, limitations, and anatomical considerations. Extra-alveolar mini-implants (buccal shelf, izc, and palatal): clinical scenarios and decision-making criteria. Learning approach: didactic lectures, 3d anatomical reviews, and clinical case presentations.

• Biomechanics and Orthodontic Auxiliaries

Objective: Enable participants to understand the biomechanical principles required for mini-implant-supported tooth movement and the auxiliaries needed to execute them. topics covered: Biomechanics of mini-implant use (force systems, vectors, center of resistance, and moment-to-force ratios). Auxiliaries used with mini-implants (tads, hooks, power arms, elastics, and custom setups). Translating biomechanical planning into clinical execution. learning approach: theoretical exposition supported by clinical case analysis and biomechanical diagrams.

• Digital and Surgical Planning Protocols

Objective: Train participants in the theoretical workflow of planning mini-implant placement using digital tools and surgical protocols. topics covered: Orthodontic and surgical planning concepts for mini-implants. The digital workflow: software-based 3d planning, virtual placement, and risk assessment. Anatomical safety considerations and avoiding critical structures. learning approach: lectures, software interface walkthroughs, and step-by-step digital planning demonstrations.

DAY 2: Hands-On Laboratory Immersion

Focus: Practical workshops, mannequin simulation, and execution of the clinical protocol.

• Surgical Placement in Artificial Bone

Objective: Allow participants to physically execute the surgical placement of mini-implants, transferring the digital plan to a physical model. Topics covered: Step-by-step laboratory placement of mini-implants in artificial bone blocks. Drilling protocols, achieving primary stability, and ensuring correct 3d positioning. learning approach: hands-on surgical practice using specialized mannequins, artificial bone, and guided surgical kits.

• Activation and Fabrication of Auxiliaries

Objective: Complete the full clinical workflow by having participants fabricate and activate the orthodontic auxiliaries on the placed mini-implants. Topics covered: activation of mini-implants and application of orthodontic forces. Fabrication and assembly of orthodontic auxiliaries directly on the specialized mannequins. Integration of the auxiliary with the mini-implant to achieve the planned tooth movement. Learning approach: Hands-on laboratory practice with wires, composites, and orthodontic materials, featuring real-time instructor feedback.

1- Knowledge and Cognitive Skills (Understanding)

Upon successful completion of this course, the participant will be able to:

• Differentiate between various types of cortical anchorage (inter-radicular and extra-alveolar, including Buccal Shelf, IZC, and palatal) to determine the most appropriate option for specific clinical scenarios.
• Analyze the biomechanical principles involved in the use of mini-implants and design effective force systems for complex tooth movements.
• Formulate comprehensive orthodontic and surgical treatment plans that integrate cortical mini-implants to achieve predictable outcomes.

2- Clinical and Technical Skills (Psychomotor)

Upon successful completion of this course, the participant will be able to:

• Execute the clinical planning of mini-implant placement using standard orthodontic diagnostic tools and specialized software to ensure optimal 3D positioning and avoid anatomical risks.
• Perform the placement of mini-implants, strictly following the established clinical plan and surgical protocol.
• Fabricate and activate orthodontic auxiliaries on specialized mannequins, accurately translating the planned biomechanics into physical clinical setups.

3- Professional and Decision-Making Competencies (Application)

Upon successful completion of this course, the participant will be able to:

• Evaluate clinical cases critically to select the ideal anchorage strategy, balancing efficiency, safety, and patient-specific anatomical limitations.
• Apply evidence-based protocols to minimize complications and maximize the predictability and stability of mini-implant-supported orthodontic treatments.

Orthodontists, orthodontic residents, and general practitioners who want to

Course Content (Topics)

• Types of cortical anchorage
• Inter-radicular mini-implants
• Extra-alveolar mini-implants (Buccal Shelf, IZC, and palatal)
• Biomechanics of mini-implant use
• Auxiliaries used with mini-implants
• Orthodontic and surgical planning of mini-implants

Course highlights:

• Digital planning of mini-implant placement
• Laboratory placement of mini-implants in artificial bone
• Activation of mini-implants and fabrication of auxiliaries on specialized mannequins