Three-dimensional effects of maxillary protraction on Pharyngeal Airway

Introduction: patients with maxillary deficiency can exhibit reduced pharyngeal airway dimensions which can negatively affect the breathing efficiency of such cases. Objective: the purpose of this study was to measure the changes in pharyngeal airway dimensions induced by maxillary protraction using facemask in a group of growing skeletal class III patients. Materials and methods: 20 growing patients with ages ranging between 8-11 years and CVMI stages 1& 2 were included in the study. Patients were diagnosed of skeletal class III malocclusion due to maxillary deficiency. All patients received facemask therapy as a treatment. CBCT scans were taken before the beginning of the treatment and by the end. The nasopharyngeal, oropharyngeal airway volumes and the minimum constricted area were measured using Dolphin software on CBCT scans. Results: All the measured airway dimensions increased significantly after facemask therapy. Conclusion: maxillary protraction induced by facemask treatment in young children was able to effect significant changes in the measured airway dimensions.