Orthopaedic Appliances Used in Paediatric Dentistry- A Literature Review

Abstract

Background- Orthopaedic appliances have been increasingly used in paediatric dentistry to treat various types of malocclusions. Despite their growing popularity, there is a need to evaluate the efficacy of these appliances in treating malocclusions in paediatric patients.
Methods- A comprehensive literature search was performed in major databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Embase, and Google Scholar, with no time limitation on publication date. The search was limited to studies in the English language only.
Results- Upon collective analysis of the 20 included studies, we found that orthopaedic appliances are effective in treating different types of malocclusions among paediatric patients. The studies converged on the notion that these appliances can be a valuable tool in interceptive orthodontic treatment, correcting bad oral habits, malocclusion, and posture in growing patients. Specifically, it was found that elastodontic appliances are effective in treating Class II malocclusion. It was also found that headgear, chincup, and facemask are effective in treating Class II and Class III malocclusions in paediatric patients. Headgear was found to be effective in reducing overjet and overbite, and improving facial aesthetics. Chincup was found to be effective in reducing mandibular growth and improving skeletal relationships. Facemask was found to be effective in protracting the maxilla and improving skeletal relationships.
Conclusion- The findings of this review suggest that orthopaedic appliances are effective in treating various types of malocclusions in paediatric patients, and can be a useful adjunct to interceptive orthodontic treatment. The review highlights the diversity of orthopaedic appliances available, each with its own unique characteristics and treatment outcomes.