Early correction of posterior crossbite--a cost-minimization analysis

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Orthodontics
• Health Economics

Background:

• Cost-effectiveness studies in orthodontics are limited.
• Posterior crossbite is a common malocclusion requiring timely intervention.
• Evaluating treatment modalities based on cost and efficacy is crucial for clinical decision-making.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the costs of correcting posterior crossbites using Quad Helix (QH) versus expansion plates (EPs).
• To perform a cost-minimization analysis assuming identical treatment outcomes.
• To relate treatment costs to clinical effectiveness and failure rates.

Main Methods:

• A cost-minimization analysis was conducted on 40 subjects with unilateral posterior crossbite in mixed dentition.
• Subjects were divided into two groups: 20 treated with QH and 20 with EPs.
• Direct (materials, staff, lab) and indirect (parental absence from work) costs were calculated, considering successful and unsuccessful treatments, including re-treatment.

Main Results:

• Quad Helix (QH) treatment demonstrated significantly lower direct and indirect costs compared to expansion plates (EPs).
• The QH group exhibited a lower failure rate, necessitating fewer re-treatments.
• Even when considering only successful treatments, QH was more cost-effective than EPs.

Conclusions:

• Quad Helix (QH) is the more cost-effective appliance for correcting unilateral posterior crossbite in the mixed dentition.
• The findings support QH as the preferred method due to its lower overall costs and higher success rate.
• This study provides valuable economic data for orthodontic treatment planning.