Virtually Guided Palate Lateral Wall, TAD-Supported Expansion in Craniofacial Skeletally Mature Adolescents and Young Adults.

Different temporary anchorage device (TAD)-assisted rapid palatal expanders may be used to treat malocclusions involving the transverse dimension and, in many instances, prevent more complex situations in the future. Each style of expander has advantages and disadvantages. The acrylic type of TAD-supported palate lateral wall expander is a reliable and cost-effective appliance for expansion treatment in adolescents and young adults (ie, aged 13 to 21). In comparison, other palatal expander designs are more suitable for older patients. One advantage of an acrylic TAD-supported palate lateral wall expander system is that it can be used for both orthopedic expansions (ie, nonsurgical TAD-supported only) and surgically assisted rapid palatal expansions (ie, with the aid of minimally invasive corticotomies) in patients who do not respond to nonsurgical expansion. This article presents general diagnostic considerations regarding maxillary transverse deficiencies, discusses the importance of palatal expansion in managing malocclusions, and describes protocols for nonsurgical and surgical management of transverse deficiencies with an acrylic TAD-supported virtually guided palate lateral wall expander.

Esthetic Considerations In Minimally Invasive Orthognathic Surgery.

Orthognathic surgery has long been successfully utilized to correct dentofacial deformities to help facilitate improved oral function and facial esthetics. The treatment, however, has been associated with a high degree of complexity and severe postoperative morbidity. More recently, minimally invasive orthognathic surgical procedures have emerged that offer potential long-term benefits such as less morbidity, a lower inflammation response, improved postoperative comfort, and better esthetic outcomes. This article examines the concept of minimally invasive orthognathic surgery (MIOS), discussing differences from traditional maxillary Le Fort I osteotomy, bilateral sagittal split osteotomy, and genioplasty procedures. MIOS protocols are described for various aspects of both the maxilla and mandible.