Treatment of complete crossbite in mixed dentition: case report with 12 years of follow-up

Tratamento de mordida cruzada total em dentição mista: Relato de caso com 12 anos de acompanhamento

ABSTRACT

The present work reports a case of complete crossbite in the beginning of mixed dentition, and aimed to demonstrate the importance of treating malocclusion, as early as possible, to restore the function of the stomatognathic system, in addition to minimizing future surgical interventions. The patient was diagnosed as Class III due to a retruded maxilla and well-positioned mandible, with evidence of harmonious facial growth. Rapid maxillary expansion of the jaw was performed with a Haas-type circuit breaker, followed using a reverse traction mask. After installing the circuit breaker, activation was carried out for 13 days, at which time the circuit was interrupted and the reverse traction mask was installed, which was used for 8 months, when the treatment was completed. The stability of the crossbite treatment was observed during a follow-up consultation 10 months later. The patient did not return to the dental clinic, being located and examined again 12 years later, when he reported that no orthodontic or orthopedic treatment had been carried out during that period. The stability of the treatment was observed, despite the second permanent molars being slightly crossed. This report confirms the importance of the treatment proposed to correct crossbite in childhood, mainly because such treatment prevented the need for orthognathic surgery. The etiological relationship between systemic illnesses, oral breathing, and harmful oral habits in the development of the malocclusion subject of this study was also evident.

Indexing terms
Angle Class III; Case report; Extraoral traction appliance; Malocclusion; Maxillary expansion