Role of Rapid Maxillary Expansion in Sagittal Correction of Maxilla
Author(s): Fatih Celebi, Ayse Burcu Kocoglu-Altan, Ali Altug Bicakci
Abstract
Objectives: To investigate the sagittal movement of the maxilla due to rapid maxillary expansion (RME) in subjects with Class III malocclusions and compare it to the amount of anterior movement of maxilla obtained with RME/FM (facemask) treatment in order to determine whether RME alone could be satisfactory in correcting particular Class III malocclusions.
Materials and Methods: Sixty-two patients treated with the RME/FM therapy or RME alone were identified from the archives of University, Department of Orthodontics. 31 patients in RME group were initially treated by rapid expansion of the maxilla. 31 patients in the RME/FM group were treated with the same type expander combined with an orthopedic facemask. Following the phase I treatment, comprehensive fixed appliance therapy was continued in both groups. The cephalometric measurements were performed on pretreatment and posttreatment lateral cephalograms of the subjects.
Results: In RME group, point A moved forward 1.70 mm which was statistically significant (P<0.001). In RME/FM group, 3.30 mm of forward movement of point A was observed which was statistically significant (P<0.001). The difference in forward movement of point A was significant between the groups (P<0.001). The angles of SNA ANB, and Wits appraisal increased significantly more in RME/FM group.
Conclusion: The forward movement of point A was significantly more in RME/FM group when compared with RME group. RME without a face mask may provide a spontaneous correction of an edge to edge incisor relationship and resolution of the mild Class III relationship.
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