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Soft tissue profile changes after rapid maxillary expansion with a bonded expander
Bianca Mota dos Santos1, Andréa Sasso Stuani, Adriana Sasso Stuani
1Department of Orthodontics, School of Dentistry of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Brazil.
European Journal of Orthodontics
|March 29, 2011
Summary
Rapid maxillary expansion (RME) using a modified acrylic-hyrax device did not significantly alter the soft tissue facial profile long-term. This effective treatment prevents adverse vertical effects in patients with crossbite.
Area of Science:
- Orthodontics
- Craniofacial Development
- Dentofacial Orthopedics
Background:
- Rapid maxillary expansion (RME) is used to correct maxillary hypoplasia.
- Concerns exist regarding potential soft tissue profile changes following RME.
- Modified devices aim to mitigate adverse effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate short- and long-term soft tissue facial profile changes after RME with a modified acrylic-hyrax device.
- To assess the efficacy of the modified device in preventing vertical dimension changes.
Main Methods:
- A sample of 20 mixed-dentition subjects with maxillary constriction and crossbite were treated.
- A modified fixed maxillary expander with an occlusal splint was used.
- Lateral cephalometric radiographs were taken pre-treatment (T1), post-expansion (T2), and post-retention (T3).
Main Results:
- Significant cephalometric changes occurred immediately post-expansion (T2) compared to pre-treatment (T1).
- No statistically significant alterations in the soft tissue facial profile were observed between pre-treatment (T1) and post-retention (T3).
- The modified device effectively prevented significant increases in anterior face height.
Conclusions:
- The modified acrylic-hyrax device with an occlusal splint does not cause significant long-term soft tissue facial profile alterations.
- This modified RME approach is effective in managing maxillary transverse deficiency while preventing adverse vertical skeletal changes.
