DENTAL CROWDING: MODERN ORTHODONTIC STRATEGIES FOR DENTAL ALIGNMENT
Keywords:
Dental Crowding, Malocclusion, Interceptive Orthodontics, Atypical Swallowing, Maxillary Expansion, Posterior Crossbite, Facial MaskAbstract
Malocclusion and dental crowding are prevalent conditions in the pediatric population, frequently driven by orofacial dysfunctions such as atypical swallowing and deleterious habits. This narrative review analyzes contemporary orthodontic strategies for managing these conditions. The literature highlights the importance of interceptive orthodontics, initiated early to correct habits and guide development. For atypical swallowing, Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy, aided by specific devices, is central. In the treatment of posterior crossbite, evidence points to the superiority of fixed expanders (such as the Quad-helix) over removable ones in children, due to greater efficacy and shorter treatment time. For Class III malocclusion, the facial mask associated with rapid maxillary expansion demonstrates significant short-term improvements, reducing the future need for orthognathic surgery.
