Short-term cone-beam computed tomography evaluation of maxillary third molar changes after total arch distalization...

Our objectives were to evaluate changes in the position of maxillary third molars with cone-beam computed tomography images in adolescents after total arch distalization using a modified C-palatal plate (MCPP) and to compare them with the changes in a matched control group.

We included 68 maxillary third molars of 40 adolescent patients (mean age, 12.6 years). They were divided into MCPP and control groups. Cone-beam computed tomography images were taken before and after molar distalization (mean duration, 14.4 months) in the MCPP group and also in the control group (mean duration, 12.9 months). The changes in the position, angulation, and rotation of the third molars were assessed, and the volumes of maxillary tuberosity were measured.

After distalization, the third molars moved backward (1.2 mm) and upward (0.5 mm) in the MCPP group with a significant difference (P <0.003), and they moved downward and forward in the control group. The changes in rotation and angulation were insignificant. The volumes of maxillary tuberosity increased in both groups.

Maxillary total arch distalization caused unerupted third molars to move backward and upward, with an insignificant difference in the posttreatment volume of maxillary tuberosity. Therefore, it may be possible to perform maxillary total arch distalization in adolescents with unerupted third molars without a germectomy, at least in the short term.