The repositioning Nance appliance: a fixed functional appliance and case report

Area of Science:

• Orthodontics
• Craniofacial Orthopedics
• Pediatric Dentistry

Background:

• Functional appliances are orthopaedic tools for modifying the facial skeleton in children.
• Fixed and removable appliances exist, with a novel fixed type, the Repositioning Nance Appliance (RNA), introduced.
• Skeletal Class II malocclusion, often due to mandibular underdevelopment, requires effective treatment strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a case report on the use of a newly developed fixed functional appliance, the Repositioning Nance Appliance (RNA).
• To evaluate the efficacy of the RNA in correcting a skeletal Class II jaw relation in a growing adolescent.

Main Methods:

• The Repositioning Nance Appliance (RNA) consists of upper molar bands connected by a palatal wire with a modified Nance button.
• The appliance directs the mandible forward, establishing an edge-to-edge incisor relationship and correcting the Class II relation.
• A 14-year-old male with skeletal Class II, horizontal growth, and crowding was treated with the RNA for 18 months, followed by fixed appliances for 12 months.

Main Results:

• Treatment with the RNA resulted in a Class I skeletal and dental relationship.
• A significant reduction in overjet and an improved facial profile were observed post-treatment.
• The case demonstrated successful correction of mandibular underdevelopment and Class II malocclusion.

Conclusions:

• The Repositioning Nance Appliance (RNA) is a simple, effective fixed functional appliance for treating skeletal Class II malocclusion.
• The RNA offers a confident, comfortable, and economical treatment option for patients and practitioners.
• Proper application of the RNA can lead to favorable orthodontic and orthopedic outcomes in growing individuals.