Distal movement of the maxillary molar using an active removable appliance and extraoral force: a case report

This paper reports on the bilateral distal movement of maxillary molars in the treatment of a dental Class II malocclusion with an appliance system that combines an active removable appliance with fixed molar bands and a cervical headgear. This combination of forces provides distal molar bodily movement where the molars have erupted or migrated mesially with a resultant loss of arch perimeter. The appliance system presented is a conservative, reliable technique that can be used to increase the maxillary arch length in growing as well as nongrowing patients.