Effects of a modified maxillary orthopaedic splint: a cephalometric evaluation

Area of Science:

• Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics
• Craniofacial Development
• Skeletal Class II Correction

Background:

• The interplay between vertical and sagittal craniofacial development is crucial for treating Class II discrepancies.
• Controlling vertical development offers therapeutic potential for correcting sagittal discrepancies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effects of a modified maxillary orthopaedic splint with anterior high-pull headgear on dentoskeletal development and rotational growth.
• To assess early correction of vertical and sagittal discrepancies in Class II malocclusion.

Main Methods:

• A modified maxillary orthopaedic splint combined with anterior high-pull headgear was used in the treatment group.
• A control group was established for comparison with uninterrupted growth.
• Standardized lateral cephalograms were analyzed using cephalometric analysis before and after treatment.

Main Results:

• The splint demonstrated both orthopaedic and orthodontic effects on dentoskeletal structures.
• A relationship was observed between the directions of maxillary and mandibular rotations.
• The treatment appeared to promote a forward mandibular rotation and alter the maxillary rotational growth pattern.

Conclusions:

• Restraining posterior vertical maxillary development and anterior vertical maxillary development can encourage forward mandibular rotation.
• The bite block effect of the splint may favorably alter condylar growth direction.
• Early intervention with this appliance can modify craniofacial growth patterns for Class II correction.