Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 31, 2026
07:16
Author Spotlight: Development of a Novel Finite Element Analysis Model for Improved Orthognathic Surgical Techniques
Published on: October 20, 2023
2.0K
Rapid maxillary expansion effects in Class II malocclusion: a systematic review
Murilo Fernando Neuppmann Feres1, Hasnain Raza2, Adel Alhadlaq3
1a Post-doctoral Fellow, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
The Angle Orthodontist
|October 31, 2015
Summary
Rapid maxillary expansion (RME) effectiveness for Class II malocclusion remains unproven. Further high-quality randomized controlled trials are necessary to establish its sagittal dental and skeletal effects in growing children.
Area of Science:
- Orthodontics
- Pediatric Dentistry
- Craniofacial Biology
Background:
- Class II malocclusion is a common dental anomaly in growing children.
- Sagittal discrepancies require effective early intervention strategies.
- Rapid maxillary expansion (RME) is a widely used orthodontic technique.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review the scientific literature on the effectiveness of RME.
- To evaluate the impact of RME on sagittal dental and skeletal parameters.
- To assess RME's efficacy in growing children with Class II malocclusion.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive systematic review of Medline, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Scopus databases.
- Inclusion of studies focusing on mixed dentition and Class II malocclusion.
- Qualitative assessment using the Methodological Index for Non-Randomized Studies (MINORS) tool.
Main Results:
- Seven studies met the eligibility criteria; none were randomized clinical trials.
- Significant methodological limitations were identified in the included controlled studies.
- The reported dental and skeletal sagittal effects of RME were inconsistent and lacked clinical significance.
Conclusions:
- Current evidence does not substantiate the effectiveness of RME for Class II malocclusions.
- High-quality randomized controlled clinical trials are essential for definitive conclusions.
- Further research is needed to clarify the role of RME in managing sagittal discrepancies.
