Three-dimensional skeletal, dentoalveolar and temporomandibular joint changes produced by Twin Block functional appliance.

INTRODUCTION: The aim of this study was to three-dimensionally analyze the net skeletal, dental, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) treatment changes using Twin Block functional therapy in comparison to untreated subjects.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study (Twin Block) group comprised 22 female patients with skeletal Class II malocclusion due to mandibular retrusion. A total of 18 skeletal Class II untreated female subjects were included as controls. Skeletal, dental, and TMJ changes were evaluated using pre- and posttreatment/observational by cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) images. The treatment changes were compared with the growth changes observed in the control group using independent t‑tests.

RESULTS: Compared to the changes induced by normal growth, the effective mandibular length, ramus, and corpus lengths increased by 3.19, 3.47, and 2.69 mm (P < 0.001 for all), respectively. The maxillary and mandibular incisors inclination and position were significantly reduced and increased, respectively (P < 0.001). The maxillary first molars were significantly moved distally and intruded by 1 and 0.36 mm, respectively, while the lower first molars moved mesially and intruded by 2.18 and 0.59 mm, respectively. There was a significant change in the condylar dimensions: increase in length, width, and height by 1.28, 0.88, 1.59 on the right and by 1.60, 0.53, and 1.10 mm on the left sides, respectively. There was significant forward positioning of the right and left condyle by 1.5 and 1.3 mm, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS: Treatment with the Twin Block functional appliance results in significant skeletal, dentoalveolar, and condylar changes in both dimensions and positions.