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A cephalometric study of mandibular changes in modified function regulator (Fränkel) treatment
Summary
Treatment with a modified Fränkel (FR1) appliance significantly altered mandibular dimensions in children with Angle Class II, Division 1 malocclusions. These subtle changes may impact clinical outcomes, despite small percentage increases observed.
Area of Science:
- Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics
- Cephalometric Analysis
- Craniofacial Growth
Background:
- Angle Class II, Division 1 malocclusions present challenges in orthodontic treatment.
- Functional appliances, like the Fränkel (FR1) appliance, are used to modify mandibular growth.
- Understanding treatment-induced changes in mandibular dimensions is crucial for effective treatment planning.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate changes in mandibular dimensions following treatment with a modified Fränkel (FR1) appliance.
- To compare these changes with those in an untreated control group of children with similar malocclusions.
- To identify specific mandibular dimensions affected by the functional regulator treatment.
Main Methods:
- A cephalometric study was conducted on two groups of children with Angle Class II, Division 1 malocclusions.
- One group received treatment with a modified Fränkel (FR1) appliance, while the other served as an untreated control group.
- Mandibular dimensions were measured and compared over a mean observation/treatment period of 3 years.
Main Results:
- Highly significant differences (P < 0.005) were observed in the treatment group for dimensions including articulare-B point, gonion-B point, occlusal plane length, and posterior border-mandibular incisor distance.
- Smaller significant differences were noted for articulare-pogonion and the Bolton plane to mandibular inferior border.
- The most stable dimensions, showing minimal changes (0.19-0.43 mm), were the posterior mandibular border, ascending ramus width, and mandibular body cross-section.
Conclusions:
- Modified Fränkel (FR1) appliance treatment induces statistically significant, albeit small (2-3 mm), changes in specific mandibular dimensions.
- These alterations primarily affect the relative distances between anterior and posterior mandibular structures.
- While overall dimensional changes are minor, they possess the potential to influence the clinical outcome of orthodontic treatment.