Maxillary tridimensional changes after slow expansion with leaf expander in a sample of growing patients: a pilot study

Authors

  • V Lanteri DDS, MS PhD in Oral Sciences, University of Milan, Department of Biomedical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, School of Dentistry – Dean Prof. Giampietro Farronato.
  • A Gianolio DDS, MS, Private practice Bra (CN)
  • G Gualandi DDS, MS, Private practice Bologna
  • M Beretta DDS, MS, Private practice Casale Monferrato (AL)

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.23804/ejpd.2018.19.01.05

Keywords:

Early treatment, Posterior crossbite, Slow maxillary expansion

Abstract

AIM: The aim of this study is to evaluate the dento-alveolar effects of slow maxillary expansion using the Leaf Expander in a sample of growing patients with maxillary transverse deficiency, unilateral cross bite and mandibular shift. METHODS: The study included 10 patients, 3 male and 7 female (mean age 7.5 + 7 months), treated with Leaf Expander anchored on the upper deciduous teeth. Digital models were obtained by a lab scan of the pvs impressions at the beginning of the therapy (T1) and at the removal of the palatal expander (T2). Five parameters were measured: 1) the distance between the first upper permanent molars; 2) the distance between the upper second deciduous molars; 3) the distance between the upper canine cusps 4) the distance between the first lower permanent molars; 5) the distance of the lower canine cusps.