Modified Teuscher-type activator combined with high-pull headgear for Class II Division 1 correction: a retrospective controlled study
Authors
Eda Fani, Martina Ferrillo, Francesco Paolo De Luca, Alfredo De Rosa
Abstract
Objective: To evaluate skeletal and dentoalveolar changes induced by a modified Teuscher-type activator combined with high-pull headgear in growing patients with Class II Division 1 malocclusion due to mandibular retrusion.
Methods: This retrospective controlled observational study included 72 growing subjects with skeletal Class II malocclusion. Thirty-six consecutive patients (TG; 20 females, 16 males; mean age 10.8 ± 1.1 years) were treated with a modified Teuscher-type activator combined with high-pull headgear. Thirty-six untreated subjects (CG; 19 females, 17 males; mean age 10.9 ± 1.0 years) were selected from the Bolton-Brush Growth Study database and matched for age, sex, and baseline malocclusion severity. Lateral cephalograms were obtained at baseline (T0) and after treatment/observation (T1). Skeletal and dentoalveolar changes were compared within and between groups.
Results: The treated group showed significant improvements in sagittal skeletal relationships compared with controls, with reductions in ANB angle and Wits appraisal (p < 0.001). Mandibular advancement was significantly greater in TG, with increased SNB and Co-Gn (p < 0.01), while maxillary sagittal progression was restrained (p < 0.05). Overjet and molar relationship improved significantly in TG (p < 0.001). Vertical skeletal control was also observed.
Conclusion: The modified Teuscher-type activator combined with high-pull headgear is an effective interceptive approach for Class II Division 1 malocclusion, producing favorable skeletal and dentoalveolar changes during growth.
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