Maxillary protraction with miniplates providing skeletal anchorage in a growing Class III patient

Abstract

Maxillary protraction headgear has been used in the treatment of Class III malocclusion with maxillary deficiency. However, loss of dental anchorage has been reported with tooth-borne anchorage such as lingual arches and expansion devices. This side effect can be minimized with skeletal anchorage devices such as implants, onplants, mini-implants, and miniplates. The use of miniplates for maxillary protraction in the mixed dentition has not been reported in the literature. This case report describes the treatment of an 8-year-old girl with a Class III malocclusion and maxillary deficiency. Miniplates were used as skeletal anchorage for maxillary protraction followed by phase 2 orthodontic treatment with fixed appliances. Skeletal, dental, and facial changes in response to orthopedic and orthodontic treatment are reported to illustrate the esthetics, function, and stability of treatment with this new technique. (Am J Orthod Dentofacial Orthop 2011; 139:99-112)