Related Experiment Videos
Orthodontic treatment for posterior crossbites.
1Orthodontic Department, Liverpool University Dental Hospital, Pembroke Place, Liverpool, Merseyside, UK, L3 5PS. jeharrison@ludh.freeserve.co.uk
The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews
|May 5, 2000
Summary
Occlusal grinding in primary teeth effectively prevents posterior crossbites from persisting. However, various orthodontic appliances showed no significant difference in expanding molars and canines for correcting posterior crossbites.
Area of Science:
- Orthodontics
- Pediatric Dentistry
- Craniofacial Development
Background:
- Posterior crossbite, where upper back teeth fit inside lower ones, can affect jaw growth.
- The causes of posterior crossbite are unclear, and it can develop at various dental stages.
- Treatments aim to widen upper teeth or address underlying causes like breathing issues or habits.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and evaluate orthodontic treatments for maxillary expansion and posterior crossbite correction.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of randomized and controlled clinical trials (1970-1997).
- Searches included Cochrane, MEDLINE, and key orthodontic journals.
- Included trials reported quantitative outcomes on crossbite correction, dental expansion, and temporomandibular joint/respiratory issues.
Main Results:
- Occlusal grinding in primary dentition, with or without expansion appliances, prevented posterior crossbite progression.
- No significant differences in molar/canine expansion were found between banded vs. bonded rapid/slow maxillary expansion.
- Transpalatal arches and removable appliances also showed no clear advantage over quad-helix devices.
Conclusions:
- Occlusal grinding is effective in managing primary dentition posterior crossbites.
- Current evidence does not differentiate the effectiveness of various maxillary expansion appliances for posterior crossbite correction.