Maxillary Response Induced by Rapid Palatal Expansion vs. Clear Aligners: A Short-Term Retrospective Evaluation of the Dento-Alveolar Effects in Mixed Dentition

Background: to analyze the dento-alveolar effects induced by two treatment appliances (i.e., RME and Clear Aligners) in growing subjects presenting with early mixed dentition mild maxillary deficiency. Methods: digital casts of 32 children treated (RG: 17 subjects) or aligners (CAG: 15 were collected. Linear angular values measured both groups on upper arch for pre- (T1) post-treatment (T2) models. An unpaired t-test was used test significant differences between (p < 0.05). Results: comparison T2-T1 changes linear measurements showed a greater increase inter-canine width (+1.5 mm ± 0.5 mm) first inter-deciduous molar (+1.4 0.4 mm), also at trans-palatal level CAG group. Conversely, posterior region arch, inter-molar distal found RG group (+1.2 when compared A crown angulation all teeth except molars. Conclusions: rapid palatal expander widened palate, tipping molars buccally extent, whereas caused canine width.