Early or late cervical traction therapy of Class II malocclusion in the mixed dentition.

It was the purpose of this investigation to evaluate the effect of cervical traction in Class II malocclusions in which treatment was started either early or late in the mixed dentition. Evaluation of the data indicated that the amount and direction of growth were of the greatest importance for effective treatment. Vertical growth appeared to be of particular importance and correlated to the anteroposterior improvement of the relationship between the maxilla and the mandible. Cervical traction, as advocated in this study, was more favorable in the early mixed dentition. A greater amount of growth and a subsequent increased reduction in the ANB angle was recorded during this period. The effect of treatment upon the maxilla, as revealed in posterior movement of the maxillary molar and the pterygomaxillary fissure, was more evident in early treatment. Great individual variability was observed, but in cases in which there was a severe discrepancy in the relationship between the maxilla and the mandible treatment in the early mixed dentition may be essential.