Application of AMCOP® elastodontic device for early orthodontic management of class III malocclusion in pediatric patients
Authors
Grazia Marinelli, Lucia Memè, Angelo Michele Inchingolo, Filippo Cardarelli, Laura Ferrante, Elisabetta De Ruvo, Francesco Inchingolo, Massimo Corsalini, Vito Crincoli, Giuseppe Minervini, Andrea Palermo, Marco Farronato, Cinzia Maria Norma Maspero, Ana Júlia De Paula Guerra, Sabina Saccomanno, Alessio Danilo Inchingolo, Gianna Di Palma
Abstract
Introduction: Managing Class III malocclusions remains a complex issue in orthodontics today. While traditional functional approaches have often led to favorable outcomes, newer alternatives such as elastodontic devices have recently gained attention as a more advanced iteration of conventional methods. These appliances may offer a promising early intervention strategy for growing patients presenting with Class III malocclusions.
Aim: This retrospective study aims to investigate the clinical effectiveness of the AMCOP® TC bioactivator in addressing dento-skeletal Class III malocclusions. Additionally, the study presents four selected clinical cases to illustrate the outcomes.
Materials and Methods: A total of 11 pediatric patients (5 boys and 6 girls) aged between 6 and 12 years were included in the study. All patients exhibited Class III malocclusion and were treated with the AMCOP® TC elastodontic appliance. The device was worn for two hours in the afternoon and overnight for an initial period of 6–8 months, followed by exclusive nighttime wear. Lateral cephalometric radiographs were taken at the start (T0) and end (T1) of the treatment. All radiographic data were evaluated using DeltaDent® software.
Conclusions: The AMCOP® TC elastodontic device effectively contributed to the correction of dento-skeletal Class III malocclusion and supported the postural improvement of the cervical spine, specifically the first vertebra. Despite the need for additional clinical studies, the results suggest that this treatment may serve as a non-invasive and well-tolerated option for interceptive orthodontic care.
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