Limiting factors of functional adaptation to orthodontic space closure.

The closure of spaces, especially in the incisor region, has been criticized as causing functional alterations in the masticatory system. The study comprised 80 patients, 30 with space closure and 50 as a control. The results showed that closure of incisor spaces caused marked occlusal alterations, but apparently no damage to the temporo-mandibular joint nor to muscle action, provided that treatment was completed before the age of 12 years.