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Class II malocclusion treatment using high-pull headgear with a splint: a systematic review
Helder B Jacob1, Peter H Buschang, Ary dos Santos-Pinto
1Texas A&M Health Science Center, TX, USA. hjacob@bcd.tamhsc.edu
Dental Press Journal of Orthodontics
|August 7, 2013
Summary
High-pull headgear effectively improves Class II malocclusion by moving the maxilla and upper molars backward. However, it shows minimal impact on the mandible, and more research is needed.
Area of Science:
- Orthodontics
- Craniofacial Growth
Background:
- Class II malocclusion is a common dental issue in growing individuals.
- High-pull headgear is an orthodontic appliance used to correct this condition.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review the scientific evidence on the effectiveness of high-pull headgear in growing Class II subjects.
- To evaluate the impact of high-pull headgear on skeletal and dental relationships.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive literature search was conducted from January 1966 to December 2008.
- Studies included growing subjects (8-15 years) with Class II malocclusion treated with high-pull headgear.
- Methodological quality of selected studies was evaluated.
Main Results:
- Four studies were selected; none were randomized controlled trials.
- High-pull headgear improved skeletal and dental relationships by distally displacing the maxilla and distalizing upper molars.
- No significant treatment effects were observed on the mandible.
Conclusions:
- Evidence suggests high-pull headgear improves anteroposterior relations through maxillary and upper molar distalization.
- There is a lack of strong evidence, particularly from randomized controlled trials.
- Future trials require improved design to enhance the quality of evidence.
