A Novel Approach for Growth Modification in Skeletal Class II High Angle Patients
Lecture Description
Introduction : Craniofacial growth is influenced by the interaction between genetically controlled cell proliferation and environmental factors that can modify the genetic program. This genetic expression can also be either upregulated or downregulated by mechanical stresses. Since these epigenetic changes can affect gene expression by turning "on" or "off" specific genes, the effect of specific environmental influences on craniofacial development can be established in the stomatognathic system.
Discussion : In treating severe sagittal and vertical skeletal discrepancies in growing patients, orthodontists only have clinical control over environmental factors such as airway and articulation. Various mechanotherapies for growing skeletal Class II high angle patients have been discussed for several decades. Among them, high-pull headgear has been widely utilized by clinicians to inhibit the eruption of posterior maxillary dentition. However, a recent study reported that using cervical headgear showed better control over the vertical dimension and produced more favorable changes in the growth of the mandible by normalizing the occlusal plane in high-angle skeletal Class II patients.
Conclusion : Since skeletal Class II with high angle tendency often worsens with growth, a proper intervention with the application of cervical headgear and myofunctional therapy (MFT), including the guidance of nasal breathing and lip sealing, must be incorporated in order to correct both sagittal and vertical skeletal discrepancies. This presentation will demonstrate the most up-to-date and unique mechanotherapy, which results in favorable responses in growing high-angle skeletal Class II patients addressing both sagittal and vertical skeletal discrepancies.
October 28-30, 2022 ¡¤ COEX, Seoul, Korea