Comparison of arch width changes in maxilla using two different types of closing loops

Abstract

Objective: To compare the changes in the arch width in maxilla using two different closing loops for space closure. Materials and method: 30 patients with class II div 1 malocclusion treated with first bicuspid extraction were randomly divided into two groups. In Group I tear drop shaped closing loop was given. In Group II closed vertical loop was given for space closure. The duration of the study was four months. Study models were taken at the start (T0) and end of study period (T4). The intercanine and intermolar arch width measurements were measured using a digital caliper. Paired samples t-test was used to evaluate the treatment changes within each group. To compare the changes between groups, unpaired t-test was performed.Results: A statistically significant decrease was seen in the intercanine width in group I. No differences were observed in intermolar width in both the groups.Conclusion: Using different types of loops for space closure in extraction cases have different effect on intercanine width, whereas it does not have any difference in affecting the intermolar width.