Rapid palatal expansion. Part 3: Strains developed during active and retention phases

Tamar Brosh*, Alexander Dan Vardimon, Costas Ergatudes, Adir Spiegler, Myron Lieberman

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

15 Scopus citations

Abstract

Patterns of strain accumulation/dissipation during the active and retention phases of rapid palatal expansion treatment were studied in a preliminary animal model (5 cats) followed by clinical study (14 patients). Two uni-axial strain gauges were bonded to the arms of a hyrax screw. The strain gauges were wired intraorally to a common male connector and protected against salivary assault. For strain registration, the connector was hooked to a switch and balance instrument and a digital strain indicator. The screw was activated (4 × 1/4 turn) every 3 to 4 days and strain and interarch distances were measured during rapid palatal expansion active and retention phases. Interarch distances were also measured during the relapse phase. Both studies share the same results. Strains and expansion increased progressively during active and retention phases of rapid palatal expansion. No difference between anterior and posterior strain was found. An immediate dental strain response that occurred during screw activations (intrasession strain) was related to tooth compression in the PDL. During the 3 to 4 day pause, a delayed skeletal strain response (intersession strain) developed that was inverted or continuous to the preceding intrasession strain. Complete dissipation of residual strains was limited to the first 1 to 3 active phase sessions. Strain accretion resulted essentially from intersession strain build-up. Strain level was preserved during the retention phase, apparently due to relapse strains. Relapse strains could not be measured but are inferred from the predominant interarch rebound measured during the relapse phase. Clinically, an extension of the intersession intervals and the retention phase are recommended.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)123-133
Number of pages11
JournalAmerican Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics
Volume114
Issue number2
DOIs
StatePublished - 1998

Funding

FundersFunder number
Lefco Foundation960680
Preminger Foundation960070

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