New palatal distraction device by both bone-borne and tooth-borne force application in a paramedian bone anchorage site: Surgical and occlusal considerations on clinical cases

Maxillary constriction is a very common pathology with implications on dental occlusion, temporomandibular joint dysfunction, nasal breathing, and impairment on the smile and face esthetic.New techniques for expansion of the maxillary bones are particularly useful in relation to the new esthetic ideals of smile and face beauty.To achieve a bodily expansion of the maxillary bones, we developed a new rigid palatal distractor device with both tooth-borne and paramedian bone-borne anchorages to achieve a safe and simple anchorage site suitable also for orthodontic appliances.The reported cases show good results, with bodily maxillary expansion and cross-bite correction without any problems or complications. Substantial advantages of this new device and technique, in comparison with other commonly used palatal distractors, consisting of bodily maxillary movements, avoidance of relapse risks, and safe and simple screw insertion site for bone anchorage also suitable for orthodontic movements, are discussed. © 2014 Mutaz B. Habal.