Effects of twin-block appliance on quality of life in OSA children with class 2 malocclusion and mandibular retrognathia.

PURPOSE

Twin block has been proposed as a potential oral appliance for the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in children with class 2 skeletal malocclusion. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of twin block appliance on quality of life in children with OSA.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This case series study comprised 47 growing OSA children with Class 2 skeletal malocclusion and mandibular retrognathia aged 10-12 years. Patients were treated with a functional twin block appliance and the quality of life was assessed using the OSA-18 questionnaire, which was administered before appliance insertion and 30 days after the end of treatment. Additionally, a second standard overnight polysomnography (PSG) was performed to determine changes in respiratory parameters.

RESULTS

All domains of the OSA-18 questionnaire showed significant changes (P < 0.025), except for physical suffering domain (P = 0.075). The mean total scores of the OSA-18 questionnaire decreased from 81.55 to and 53.07 scores (28.49 scores, P < 0.001). At the end of the treatment, the apnea-hypopnea index decreased significantly by 4.53 events/h (74.0 %), P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

The twin block appliance resulted in a significant improvement in four of the five domains of the OSA-18 questionnaire, with a positive impact on the quality of life in OSA children with Class 2 skeletal malocclusion. Patients showed significant improvements in respiratory sleep parameters and parent-reported symptoms.