Pediatric Treatment of Anterior-Upper-Single Dental Crossbite Using a Versatile Sagittal Screw System: A Case Series.

Abstract

Background/objectives: Anterior crossbite is characterized by a reverse sagittal relationship between the maxillary and mandibular incisors. Early treatment of an anterior crossbite is advocated to avoid periodontal and traumatic consequences on lower dentition along with growth disturbances in the anterior maxilla and mandible. The present case series describes the usage of a sagittal expansion screw integrated with a removable maxillary plate or fixed appliance to correct an anterior upper single dental crossbite and outlines the clinical rationale and the protocol associated with this appliance system.

Methods: A total of four children presenting anterior crossbite were treated using a sagittal expansion screw integrated into a removable plate or a fixed appliance.

Results: All patients were successfully treated in less than 4 months. Overjet and overbite were normalized by the end of treatment. The orthodontic treatment received positive feedback from parents and caregivers, who seek a rapid improvement in their children's aesthetics and function. No significant discomfort or speech difficulties were reported by the parents or patients.

Conclusions: The present case series would suggest that a sagittal expansion screw, integrated into both a removable and fixed appliance, can represent a valuable and versatile treatment option for correcting an anterior crossbite.