Postpubertal Effects of the Rapid Maxillary Expansion and Facial Mask versus the Removable Mandibular Retractor for the Early Treatment of Class III Malocclusion: A Study on Lateral Cephalograms

The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy early treatment Class III malocclusions with rapid maxillary expansion (RME) and facial mask (FM) versus removable mandibular retractor (RMR) re-evaluated at a postpubertal observation on lateral cephalograms. All prepubertal patients malocclusion treated consecutively from 1986 2013 by means RME/FM or RMR were analyzed. Twenty-nine therapy 23 selected. Lateral cephalograms available 3 time points, before (T1), end active (T2), (T3). Statistical comparisons performed independent sample t tests Mann–Whitney tests. During T1–T3 interval, significantly greater protraction (SNA +1.5 mm, p = 0.031) improvements in ANB Wits appraisal (+1.9 degrees, 0.002, +2.2 0.012, respectively) recorded group. No statistically significant changes could be found vertical skeletal measurements. In dentoalveolar region, group showed correction molar relationship (−1.5 0.021). Early protocol comparison advancement sagittal relationships.