The rationale and indications for equilibration in the primary dentition

One type of malocclusion in the primary dentition is posterior crossbite caused by premature deflective occlusal interferences. The primary canines are the teeth that most frequently contribute to a laterally guided centric occlusion that creates a functional malocclusion. Because this is not a self-correcting situation, these types of posterior crossbites should be identified early and evaluated for possible correction through occlusal equilibration. A case that illustrates early correction of a unilateral functional posterior crossbite by equilibration and the 5-year results are presented.