Comparison of Skeletal and Airway Changes Between Subjects with Class II Malocclusion Treated with Functional Therapy in the Pre-Pubertal and Pubertal Phases

Abstract

AIM: Evaluate the skeletal and upper airway changes induced by the Twin Block device in patients with Class II malocclusion due to mandibular retrognathia using 2D imaging and compare the effects of prepubertal and pubertal treatment. METHODS: Thirty patients (15 males and 15 females) with Class II malocclusion who were treated with the Twin Block device were selected. Latero-lateral teleradiographs were acquired at the beginning (T0) and end (T1) of treatment. The sample was divided into two groups (pre-pubertal and pubertal) according to cervical vertebral maturation (CVM). Patients wore the device 24 hours a day, except during meals and oral hygiene, and underwent monthly checkups. Images were analysed using DeltaDent software. CONCLUSION: The Twin Block effectively improved mandibular position and dental occlusion, positively contributing to upper airway development with comparable effects in the two growth stages.