Pharyngeal Airway Changes with Twin Block Appliance in Skeletal Class II Patients: CBCT Study

Abstract Background: The assessment of upper airway obstructions is an essential part of early orthodontic documentation. Traditional methods, such as lateral cephalograms, have limitations due to their two-dimensional representation of complex tridimensional structures. Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) has emerged as a more effective diagnostic tool for evaluating upper airways, providing three-dimensional (3D) images. However, despite the reliability of CBCT scans, there remains a diversity of methodologies for evaluating upper airways. Settings & design: 30 patients aged between 9 to 16 years, of Indian origin, were enrolled in the study. Methods & materials: This study aimed to investigate the effects of orthopedic mandibular advancement using functional appliances on upper airway dimensions in patients with mandibular retrognathism and Class II malocclusion. CBCT scans were utilized to obtain accurate and reliable 3D data. Statistical analysis: The significance of the data was assessed using Student’s t-test and Chi-square test, with a p-value < 0.05 considered statistically significant. Results and conclusion: The results demonstrated significant enlargement in the hypopharynx and oropharynx after functional appliance treatment, supporting the use of early intervention to correct malocclusion and improve airway dimensions. Keywords: Class II malocclusion, cone-beam computed tomography, functional appliances, pharyngeal airway passage.