Effect of upper jaw expansion on lower jaw growth in children
Official title: Study the Effect of Upper Expansion Appliances on Lower Jaw Forward Projection/Growth
Run by University of Alberta · NCT03286569 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study tests if using a special device to widen the upper jaw can help young children with a backward lower jaw grow it forward better.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 9 Years to 11 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 60 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Alberta Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Edmonton, Alberta) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | April 1, 2019 |
| Main results expected | February 1, 2027 |
| Study ends | February 1, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | January 7, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT03286569 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are young children aged 9-11 with Class II skeletal malocclusion due to lower jaw backward projection.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients currently undergoing other orthodontic treatments or those with growth problems will not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This study investigates the impact of upper jaw expansion appliances on the forward growth of the lower jaw in young children aged 9-11 with a backward positioned lower jaw. A total of 60 participants will be recruited to receive either an active or non-active Wilson type upper arch expansion appliance. The effectiveness of the treatment will be assessed using Cone Beam computed tomography before and after a 9-month treatment period. Following the study, participants will continue with routine orthodontic care.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could improve jaw alignment and overall dental health in children with excessive overbite.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has indicated that upper jaw expansion can lead to positive outcomes in lower jaw growth, suggesting potential success for this approach.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: 1. Class II skeletal due to lower jaw backward projection 2. Class II malocclusion 3. Early mixed dentition (all first permanent molars erupted, as well as all erupting upper and lower permanent incisors) Exclusion Criteria: 1. Other orthodontic treatment provided 2. Growth problems (craniofacial syndromes, etc.)
Where it's running
-
University of Alberta
Edmonton, Alberta, Canada Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Dr. Tarek El-Bialy, PhD
- Email: telbialy@ualberta.ca
- Phone: 780-492-2751
How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.