Background: Orthodontic mini-screws (OMSs), also known as temporary anchorage devices (TADs), are essential for managing complex malocclusions. However, the use of traditional materials, such as titanium and stainless steel, has restrictions that include stress shielding, aesthetic limitations, and incompatibility with various imaging modalities. Poly-ether-ether-ketone (PEEK), a biocompatible thermoplastic polymer, possesses mechanical properties close to that of bone and therefore presents an excellent alternative. Objective: To assess the suitability of PEEK as a material for OMSs, outline benefits of PEEK compared with metallic counterparts, and identify gaps in current research. Methods: An existing literature search was performed, utilizing internet sources, such as Google Scholar and PubMed, focusing on properties, dental and orthodontic applications of PEEK. Conclusion: PEEK’s favorable biomechanical compatibility, radiological advantage, and existing success in other dental applications make it a potential candidate for OMSs. However, there is a remarkable lack in studying the possibility of PEEK based OMSs. Further research is needed to confirm their performance trends, optimize design parameters, and set guidelines for incorporation in the field of orthodontics.
Al-hamadani et al. (Mon,) studied this question.