Static magnetic field combined with functional appliances: a new approach to enhance mandibular growth in Class II malocclusion

Med Hypotheses. 2009 Mar;72(3):276-9. doi: 10.1016/j.mehy.2008.08.029. Epub 2008 Dec 4.

Abstract

Class II malocclusion is one of the most common orthodontic problems. The main aetiology of Class II malocclusion is mandibular retrognathia. A variety of functional appliances have been used to stimulate mandibular growth in adolescence, however, the effects remain unsatisfactory. Therefore, new approaches are in need to strengthen the effects of functional appliances. Static magnetic field (SMF), created by permanent magnets, has long been proven to be clinically safe and is well accepted as a practical and non-invasive therapy. Numerous experimental and clinical data suggest that exogenous SMF can make profound effects on a large variety of biological systems. There has been increasing interest in curing bone injuries with SMF. More recently, literatures shed light on the chondrogenic and osteogenic effects of SMF. SMF and functional appliances may well have a synergistic effect in mandibular growth promotion. Based on experimental results and theoretical analysis, it is hypothesized that SMF combined with functional appliances can enhance mandibular growth in Class II malocclusion. A practical clinical design is also put forward.

MeSH terms

  • Clinical Trials as Topic*
  • Combined Modality Therapy
  • Humans
  • Magnetic Field Therapy / methods*
  • Malocclusion, Angle Class II / physiopathology*
  • Malocclusion, Angle Class II / rehabilitation*
  • Mandible / growth & development*
  • Mandible / radiation effects
  • Orthodontic Appliances*