Asymmetric maxillary expansion (AMEX) appliance for treatment of true unilateral posterior crossbite

Abstract

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of an asymmetrical maxillary expansion (AMEX) appliance. Patients with true unilateral posterior crossbites were included in the study. The treatment group consisted of 18 patients who had a mean age of 14 +/- 2.3 years. Treatment effects were evaluated on posteroanterior radiographs, dental casts, and photographs of the dental casts. All unilateral posterior crossbites were corrected in a mean expansion treatment time of 3.3 +/- 0.48 months. As a result of expansion, maxillary interfirst molar, interfirst and second premolar, and intercanine arch widths increased significantly. Comparison of the 2 sides showed that the teeth on the crossbite side moved and tipped more buccally than the teeth on the noncrossbite side. Of the total expansion gained, 75.8% to 91.7% was due to the buccal movements of the teeth on the noncrossbite side. The AMEX appliance was found to be effective in correcting true unilateral posterior crossbites, and therefore it can be recommended for clinical use.