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Anterior Crossbite Correction — MFDS Part 1 MCQ

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ModerateOrthodontic PrinciplesAnterior Crossbite CorrectionMFDS Part 1

An 8-year-old child in the early mixed dentition has a single maxillary permanent incisor in dental crossbite. There is adequate space for correction, no skeletal Class III discrepancy or mandibular displacement, and the child is likely to comply with treatment. The required movement is simple labial tipping of the affected incisor. Which appliance is most appropriate?

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Correct answer: E — An upper removable appliance incorporating a Z-spring

An upper removable appliance with a Z-spring is most appropriate. This is an isolated dental crossbite with adequate space and requires only labial tipping of one maxillary incisor; a cooperative child can therefore be treated with a simple removable active component. A posterior bite plane may be incorporated clinically if occlusal disengagement is required. A full fixed appliance could move the tooth but is unnecessarily comprehensive for the defined problem. Functional appliances address broader sagittal jaw or dentoalveolar discrepancies, while headgear is principally used for growth modification or anchorage. Orthognathic surgery is inappropriate because there is no skeletal discrepancy and the child is still growing.

Reference: Gok BN, Gungor AY, Gungor OE. Effect of clear aligners and Z-spring appliance on anterior crossbite correction and quality of life in the mixed dentition: a randomized clinical trial. Angle Orthodontist. 2025. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41015409/