Effect of upper jaw expansion on lower jaw growth in children

Study the Effect of Upper Expansion Appliances on Lower Jaw Forward Projection/Growth

Not applicable Interventional University of Alberta · NCT03286569

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

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment60 (estimated)
Ages9 Years to 11 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Alberta Academic / other
Locations1 site (Edmonton, Alberta)
Trial IDNCT03286569 on ClinicalTrials.gov

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.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are young children aged 9-11 with Class II skeletal malocclusion due to lower jaw backward projection.

Not a fit: Patients currently undergoing other orthodontic treatments or those with growth problems will not benefit from this study.

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 performed: Previous research has indicated that upper jaw expansion can lead to positive outcomes in lower jaw growth, suggesting potential success for this approach.

Eligibility criteria

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 this trial is running

Edmonton, Alberta

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Overbite Horizontal
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.