Anterior crossbite treatment in the primary dentition: Three case reports

Abstract

Anterior crossbite is characterized by negative horizontal overjet between the jaws, and occurs due to skeletal, functional, and/or dental imbalances. It is often found in primary and mixed dentition stages and causes severe aesthetic, functional, and psychosocial impairment. We report the facial and occlusal effects of maxillary protraction associated with rapid maxillary expansion in three young patients with primary dentition. The proposed treatment plan consisted of protraction and rapid maxillary expansion. The mechanical device chosen was the facial mask combined with a McNamara rapid palatal expander. The anterior crossbite was corrected, and significant facial and cephalometric benefits were obtained. The treatment of maxillary protraction during the deciduous dentition stage, in cases where there is good acceptance and collaboration by patients, provides excellent clinical results and constitutes a viable treatment option.