Tinela Panaite ^* Carina Balcos ^* Carmen Savin ^* Nicolae Daniel Olteanu Nikolaos Karvelas Cristian Romanec ^* Raluca-Maria Vieriu Alice Chehab ^* Irina Zetu ^*

• Grigore T. Popa University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iași, Romania

The manuscript "Exploring the drivers and challenges of mini-implant use in orthodontics: a revealing survey" is a comprehensive study suitable for the Frontiers Oral Health. It delves into the current practices among orthodontic specialists regarding mini-implants, assessing the factors influencing their use, specialists' experiences, and perceptions of clinical outcomes. This study utilizes a detailed online survey to gather data from Romanian orthodontists, offering valuable insights into the real-world application of mini-implants. By evaluating the correlation between experience levels and perceptions, as well as identifying challenges and material preferences, the manuscript provides a holistic view of mini-implant usage in orthodontic practice. It highlights the importance of education, training, and technical support in enhancing their utilization. Additionally, the study reveals notable correlations and discrepancies between documented literature and actual practices, shedding light on the diversity of applications and decision-making processes in the field. This research is particularly relevant to the journal's focus on orthodontic innovation and clinical practice, addressing key aspects of professional competence and treatment outcomes. It contributes to the ongoing discourse on improving orthodontic procedures through evidence-based insights and practical recommendations for overcoming barriers in mini-implant utilization.