Comparative analysis of changes resulting from bite plate therapy and Begg treatment.

This study was based on a cephalometric study of 82 children composed of three groups: the first group treated with a flat anterior bite plate, the second group subject to the Begg therapy, and an untreated control group. The object of this study was to investigate changes in the dentofacial complex which occur as a result of bite plate therapy compared with Begg treatment. It was found that the short term changes as a result of bite plate therapy were associated with an increase in the height of the upper and lower molars. The long term changes as a result of bite plate therapy were associated with a significant increase in the height of the molars and some increase in lower incisor height. Lower facial height showed a significant increase in dimension. During Begg treatment it was found that short term changes in the dentofacial complex were associated with a significant increase in the height of the lower molars and a significant reduction in the height of the lower incisors. The long term changes of Begg therapy were associated with a significant increase in the height of the lower molars and some increase in lower facial height.