Effectiveness of early orthodontic treatment with the Twin-block appliance: a multicenter, randomized, controlled trial. Part 2: Psychosocial effects

Abstract

The aims of this project were to evaluate whether early orthodontic treatment with the Twin-block appliance for the developing Class II Division 1 malocclusion resulted in any psychosocial benefits. This multicenter trial was carried out in the United Kingdom, with 174 children aged 8 to 10 years with Class II Division 1 malocclusions randomly allocated to receive treatment with Twin-block appliances or to an untreated control group. Data were collected at the start of the study and 15 months later. Results showed that early treatment with Twin-block appliances resulted in an increase in self-concept and a reduction of negative social experiences. The subjects also reported treatment benefits that could be related to improved self-esteem. Further research is needed to determine the extent to which these effects translate into social behavior and experiences.