Rational Method of Early Treatment of Anterior Crossbite

Overview

Simple reverse overbite or anterior crossbite is a dental malocclusion resulting from the abnormal axial inclination of the anterior teeth. It belongs to anomalies that lack so-called self correction tendency. During eruption of further incisors their wrong axial position gets f"ixed and negatively influences the affected incisors, their periodontium, jaws growth, functional occlusion, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and the patient's appearance. For the above-mentioned reasons, the correction of anterior crossbite should be carried out as soon as possible. The author in her presentation describes an early treatment method, which can be implemented in the mixed dentition using a f"ixed orthodontic appliance in combination with a reduced occlusive splint in the lower jaw. This combination allows the application of a light and continual forte on the affected tooth without risking unfavorable action on its root, which is still developing. Furthermore the author concentrates on the indications of the above-mentioned procedure with respect to the etiology and diagnosis of the anterior crossbite. She discusses the advantages and disadvantages of this procedure in comparison with therapeutic procedures in other anterior crossbite.

Key words:
anterior crossbite - early treatment - fixed appliance treatment indication