Evaluation of Vertical Skeletal Changes Consequent to Maxillary Molars Distalization with Distal Jet Appliance

Asif Nazir; Arfan ul Haq; Samera Kiran

Evaluation of Vertical Skeletal Changes Consequent to Maxillary Molars Distalization with Distal Jet Appliance

Authors

Asif Nazir BDS, FCPS (Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery) Associate Professor/Head of Department, Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Unit, Nishtar Institute of Dentistry, Multan, Pakistan.
Arfan ul Haq BDS, MDS, FCPS (Orthodontics), MCPS (Operative Dentistry) Professor/Head of Department, Department of Orthodontics, Faisalabad Medical University, Faisalabad, Pakistan.
Samera Kiran BDS (Postgraduate Resident Orthodontics), Demonstrator, Department of Orthodontics, Nishtar Institute of Dentistry, Multan, Pakistan.

Keywords:

Distalization, distal jet appliance, malocclusion, skeletal pattern

Abstract

Introduction: The most common presentation for orthodontic treatment is Class II malocclusion. Distalization of maxillary molars is a popular non-extraction treatment alternative in some patients with Class II malocclusion. Hence the objective of the present study was to evaluate mean increase in vertical skeletal pattern after distalization by using distal jet appliance

Material and Methods: Study was conducted at Orthodontic Department, deâ€™Montmorency College of Dentistry from May 2014 to April 2015. All pretreatment records including clinical and radiographic evaluation, study casts and photographs were taken for each patient. Distal jet was fabricated according to manufacturerâ€™s instructions, fixed with glass ionomer cement and activated on monthly visits until desired distalization was achieved. The same records were repeated for all patients to assess postdistalization effects.

Results: A total of 40 patients (23 girls, 17 boys) with mean age of 13.15Â±0.60 years having Angleâ€™s Class II malocclusion were included in this study. There was a significant decrease in PTV Max. 1^st Molar Centroid after distalization. This reflects mean measurement of distalization. The mean PP Max. 1^st Molar Centroid was 17.03Â±1.22mm at baseline which was increased to 17.73Â±1.32mm after distalization. The mean increase in this measurement was 0.69Â±0.36mm. This reflects mean measurement of vertical skeletal change secondary to distalization.

Conclusions: The current study provides the basis to evaluate vertical skeletal changes by using linear and angular cephalometric measurements after distalization with distal jet appliance. The results of this study also provide guidance for selection of patients with Class II malocclusion for distalization of molars.