Digital occlusal force analysis in anterior crossbite

Anterior crossbite is a common malocclusion in pediatric patients that can negatively affect occlusal force distribution and periodontal health. This study aimed to evaluate changes in occlusal force distribution and periodontal health parameters before and after interceptive orthodontic treatment using a digital occlusal analysis device. Thirty-five children aged 6-11 years with anterior crossbite were treated using a Hawley appliance with a Z-spring. Occlusal forces were recorded at baseline (T0) and after treatment (T1) using the OccluSense digital analysis system. Periodontal parameters, including plaque index, gingival index, probing depth, and clinical attachment level, were also assessed. Data were analyzed using paired t-tests, Wilcoxon signed-rank tests, and Kruskal-Wallis tests, with the significance level set at p < 0.05. Following treatment, the regional force distribution decreased from 65.3% ± 8.2-52.1% ± 6.7% (p < 0.001), and the percentage force distribution decreased from 68.7% ± 9.1-54.3% ± 7.2% (p < 0.001). The plaque index declined from 1.8 ± 0.6 to 1.2 ± 0.4, gingival index from 1.5 ± 0.5 to 0.9 ± 0.3, probing depth from 3.2 ± 0.8 to 2.7 ± 0.6 mm, and clinical attachment level from 2.8 ± 0.7 to 2.4 ± 0.5 mm (p < 0.05). Interceptive treatment with a Z-spring appliance resulted in statistically significant changes in occlusal force distribution and periodontal health parameters. Digital occlusal analysis may serve as a valuable tool for objectively evaluating treatment outcomes in pediatric patients.