Incorporating the maxillary transverse dimension in the treatment plan

Abstract

Transverse dimension of the maxilla is a key point to consider when elaborating a surgical-orthodontic approach. Though the esthetic impact of transverse maxillary disharmonies is mild, their functional impact is major, with a tendency to underestimate it. The diagnosis of a transverse maxillary disharmony should be made during childhood, pointing out the alveolar part (endo or exoalveoly) and the skeletal part (endo or exognathy) of the dysmorphosis. The authors, an orthodontist and a maxillofacial surgeon, bring their respective look upon transverse maxillary disharmonies and present the various therapeutic means that can be utilized, most of the time through a surgical-orthodontic collaboration. Long-term occlusal stability definitely requires the integration of the maxillary transverse dimension when elaborating a surgical-orthodontic therapeutic approach.