Objectives: Orthodontic traction with gold chain bonding (GCB) facilitates the eruption of impacted teeth. This study evaluates factors influencing traction success and assesses a novel GCB traction complexity matrix in a local population. Material and Methods: A retrospective cohort study conducted at the National Dental Centre Singapore (NDCS) analyzed 495 impacted teeth from 421 patients (2014–2021). Radiographic and patient variables, along with treatment outcomes and duration, were assessed, and complexity scores were derived using the GCB traction complexity matrix. Logistic regression and area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) analyses evaluated predictors of success and duration. Results: Success correlated with crown and apex position, vertical height, and angulation, but not with apex formation and root form. Vertical height also influenced treatment duration. The GCB traction complexity matrix showed moderate predictive power (AUROC: 73.7%, 95% confidence interval 64.2%, 83.2%). Conclusion: Crown and apex position, vertical height, and angulation can serve as predictors of success, with vertical height also a predictor of treatment duration. The GCB traction complexity matrix can guide case selection and optimize treatment planning.
Cheng et al. (Wed,) studied this question.