VERSATILITY OF THE 2×4 FIXED ORTHODONTIC APPLIANCE IN MANAGING ANTERIOR CROSSBITE AND INCISOR PROCLINATION DURING MIXED DENTITION: A CASE SERIES

*Dr. Satish Maran, Dr. Anaya Kulkarni Kale, Dr. Saarika Suresh, *Dr. Sahiba Khan, Dr. Pooja Bhoyar, Dr. Preksha Khare

ABSTRACT

Background: The mixed dentition period presents an optimal opportunity for interceptive orthodontic management of developing malocclusions. Anterior crossbite and maxillary incisor proclination, if left untreated, can lead to significant dental, periodontal, and skeletal complications. Case Description: This case series presents three cases in the mixed dentition stage managed using the 2×4 fixed orthodontic appliance. Involving a single-tooth anterior crossbite and one case involving proclination of the maxillary central incisor, this case series presents three cases in the mixed dentition stage, managed using a 2×4 fixed orthodontic appliance with a diagnosis of Angle's class 1 malocclusion. Treatment was initiated with orthodontic molar bands cemented on the maxillary first permanent molars and MBT brackets bonded on the four maxillary permanent incisors. A progressive NiTi archwire sequence was followed, and posterior bite raising was performed wherever required to achieve adequate incisal clearance. Satisfactory correction of the presenting malocclusion was achieved in all three cases within a treatment duration of 3 to 6 months. Conclusion: The 2×4 appliance proved to be a versatile, effective, and well-tolerated interceptive treatment modality for anterior crossbite and incisor proclination in mixed dentition. Its ability to provide three-dimensional tooth movement control with minimal patient compliance requirements makes it a valuable tool in pediatric dental practice.

Keywords: 2×4 appliance, anterior crossbite, incisor proclination, interceptive orthodontics, mixed dentition, pediatric dentistry.