Treatment effects of Fränkel, activator and extraoral traction appliances

The effects of the Fränkel appliance on the treatment of Class II, Division 1 malocclusion were compared with the activator, high-pull headgear, cervical traction and a control group. A sample of 16 Fränkel cases treated in the mixed dentition was tested in four craniofacial areas, with findings as follows: a. Maxillae, no significant horizontal effect b. Mandibular length, significantly increased c. Lower face height, widely variable effects. d. Less upper molar eruption and more lower molar eruption. Although the findings of this study should be interpreted as tentative, they do show the Fränkel appliance to have some different mean effects on the craniofacial complex. Variability is a most important aspect of the findings of this study. Future studies must deal not only with mean changes, but with the Fränkel appliance's variable effects on differential individuals. Optimal application of this appliance requires judgment in case selection and careful analysis of progress, using adequate follow-up records and a firm knowledge of normal growth and development of the craniofacial complex.