Analysis of errors in following the rapid maxillary expansion activation protocol: An observational study

Authors

  • A Nota Dental School, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University and IRCCS San Raffaele, Milan, Italy - Department MeSVA, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila
  • S Tecco Dental School, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University and IRCCS San Raffaele, Milan
  • S Caruso Department MeSVA, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila
  • M Severino Department MeSVA, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila
  • R Gatto Department MeSVA, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila
  • A Baldini Dental School, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University and IRCCS San Raffaele, Milan

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.23804/ejpd.2019.20.02.06

Keywords:

Maxillary expansion, Palatal expansion, Dental arches, Orthodontics, Orthodontic appliances

Abstract

AIM: The aim of this study is to analyse the correspondence between the reported number of activations and the number of prescribed activations. MATERIALS: A total of 114 subjects with constricted maxillary arches (58 males, 56 females; mean age 10.26 ± 1.92 years) were enrolled in the study. The subjects underwent RME and all the parents were provided with a screw activations report form in order to remind them the number of prescribed activations. At the removal of the expander, the screw was turned back in order to count the effective number of activations applied. CONCLUSION: Errors in following the rapid palatal expansion activation protocol are not uncommon. These errors could consist in missed or added activations to the number prescribed by the orthodontist, more often in missed ctivations.