Early anterior crossbite correction through posterior bite opening: a 3D superimposition prospective cohort study

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Orthodontics
• Pediatric Dentistry

Background:

• Anterior crossbite is a common malocclusion in the mixed dentition.
• Early intervention for anterior crossbite can prevent further complications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of early anterior crossbite correction using posterior bite opening.
• To assess clinical performance and potential adverse effects of this early orthodontic intervention.

Main Methods:

• A prospective study of 16 pediatric patients (ages 6.2-9.3 years) with dental anterior crossbite.
• Treatment involved posterior bite opening, with follow-up for at least 6 months post-treatment.
• 3D superimposition and digital model analysis were used to precisely evaluate tooth movement.

Main Results:

• Anterior crossbite was successfully corrected in 87.5% of patients.
• Correction was stable long-term without retention, with active treatment averaging 2.5 months.
• Significant forward movement and buccal inclination of incisor crowns were observed, with spontaneous antagonist adaptation.

Conclusions:

• Posterior bite opening is a promising, simple, and non-compliance approach for early dental anterior crossbite correction.
• The employed 3D analysis technique allows precise evaluation of single tooth movement in three planes.
• This method offers effective and stable correction with minimal adverse effects.