Removable versus fixed myo-functional appliances in class II malocclusion among Indians

Area of Science:

• Orthodontics
• Craniofacial Development

Background:

• Class II division 1 malocclusion is a common orthodontic issue characterized by mandibular retrusion.
• Effective management strategies are crucial for optimal treatment outcomes.
• Myofunctional and fixed functional appliances are utilized for Class II correction.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the skeletal and dentoalveolar effects of two myofunctional appliances (Frankel, Twin block) and two fixed functional appliances (PowerScope, Forsus).
• To evaluate the efficacy of these appliances in managing Class II division 1 malocclusion.

Main Methods:

• A randomized controlled trial involving 56 patients with Class II division 1 malocclusion.
• Patients were equally divided into four groups: Frankel appliance (n=14), Twin block appliance (n=14), PowerScope (n=14), and Forsus (n=14).
• Skeletal and dentoalveolar changes were assessed and compared across all groups.

Main Results:

• The Twin block group exhibited a significant increase in SNB angle (4.2°), which was notable among all treatment groups.
• A significant reduction in vertical dimensions (SN-GoGn) was observed in the Twin block group (p = 0.002).
• All tested appliances demonstrated varying degrees of skeletal and dentoalveolar effects.

Conclusions:

• The Twin block functional appliance demonstrates favorable skeletal effects for early treatment of Class II malocclusion associated with mandibular retrusion.
• Early intervention with the Twin block appliance is recommended due to its positive impact on skeletal dimensions.