Efficacy Of 3D Printed Novel Pendulum In Class II Patients

This study investigates the molar distalization effects of a self-developed 3D-printed novel bilateral push-pull pendulum appliance in patients with Angle Class II malocclusion. Ethics approval was granted by the Medical Ethics Committee (approval KYKQ2023MEC002). From September 2018 to September 2024, 168 patients who completed treatment at the Department of Orthodontics were invited to participate, with 66 meeting the inclusion criteria. Participants were divided into three groups: the traditional pendulum appliance group (applying palatal forces), the novel bilateral push-pull pendulum appliance group (utilizing both buccal and palatal forces), and the clear aligner group (Invisalign). Pre- and post-treatment three-dimensional digital models were analyzed using Geomagic Wrap 2023, focusing on molar distalization, intrusion, buccolingual displacement, mesiodistal inclination, U1-SN values, and anterior overjet. Data were statistically analyzed using the t-test and GraphPad Prism 9. The two measurers demonstrated a high level of agreement (ICC=0.98). Results showed significant efficacy across all groups (P<0.05). However, no statistically significant differences were observed in U1-SN values and anterior overjet (P>0.05), nor between different gender groups (P>0.05). Molar distalization was greatest in the bilateral pendulum group, followed by the traditional pendulum and clear aligner groups (P < 0.05). The clear aligners outperformed the bilateral pendulum in intrusion (P < 0.05). The findings support the efficacy of the 3D-printed appliance in safely and effectively treating Angle Class II malocclusion while maintaining anterior tooth anchorage and controlling molar movement.