Evaluation the effect of maxillary protraction on the airway dimensions: a review

Abstract

Aim and Objective:  The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of maxillary protraction on airway dimensions in growing patients. Method and material: The research was conducted using literature reviews. Articles included in databases such as PubMed, Embase, Google Scholar and Cochrane were reviewed via inputting keywords such as maxillary protraction, maxilla retrusion, retrognathic, class III malocclusion, face mask, reverse head gear, Delaire, protraction head gear, reverse occlusion, anterior crossbite, growing patient, bone anchorage, dental anchorage. The search period for articles ranged from January 2005 to April 2021. Results:7 articles with inclusion criteria were included in the study; the results of the studies showed the effectiveness of maxillary protraction on increasing the dimensions of the airway. Studies have shown a significant increase in the size of the upper airway, especially the nasopharynx, following maxillary protraction with tooth-borne and bone-borne appliances. Conclusion: Maxillary protraction can increase the size of the upper airway in growing patients. However, further studies are needed to elucidate the effects on changes in the pharyngeal airway, respiratory indicators (such as the apnea-hypopnea index), and its long-term effects.