Effects of Class III Elastics on Stability of Orthopaedic Class III Correction

Launched by SYDNEY LOCAL HEALTH DISTRICT · May 27, 2021

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This study checks whether adding small rubber bands (Class III elastics) to clear plastic retainers helps keep Class III jaw corrections more stable after orthodontic treatment in children and teenagers. It will compare two groups: (1) upper-lower clear plastic retainers with elastics, and (2) upper-lower clear plastic retainers without elastics. The trial is conducted in Australia (Chatswood and Sydney Dental Hospital) and plans to enroll about 42 participants who are 12 to 16 years old.

Who can join? Children and teens who have finished treatment for skeletal Class III malocclusion due to a retruded upper jaw, used Class III appliances and full braces, and who do not have other orthodontic treatment or medical conditions that affect growth. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of the two groups and followed for up to 5 years. The main outcome is the difference in overjet (how far the upper front teeth stick out over the lower) between the two groups after 5 years. Additional outcomes include whether jaw surgery is needed, changes in jaw and tooth positions on X-rays, how easy the retainers and elastics are to use, alignment stability, and gum health around the front teeth. The study is not FDA-regulated and is currently enrolling by invitation, with an estimated completion around 2027.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Patients that completed their orthodontic treatment for the management of their skeletal class III with upper jaw retrusion that was treated with Class III orthopaedic appliances, followed by full fixed appliances.
• • No congenital anomalies or craniofacial syndromes
• • No other orthodontic treatment
• • No medical history that effects growth
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Congenital anomalies or craniofacial syndromes
• • Other orthodontic treatment
• • Medical history that effects growth