A comparative assessment of tongue posture and pharyngeal airway in class ii division 1 patients treated with functional appliance and camouflage treatment: a retrospective cephalometric study

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Skeletal Class II malocclusion, predominantly marked by mandibular retrognathism, is a prevalent orthodontic concern with complex etiology encompassing hereditary, environmental, and neuromuscular factors. Low tongue posture in such cases disrupts muscular equilibrium, leading to constricted dental arches, high palatal vaults, and compromised pharyngeal airway dimensions, heightening risks of upper airway resistance syndrome (UARS) and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). The pharyngeal airway, intricately linked to tongue posture, plays a crucial role in breathing and craniofacial development. Treatment options for Class II malocclusion range from growth modification with functional appliances to dental camouflage via extractions. While functional appliances aim to advance the mandible and optimize airway patency, the effects of extraction therapy on tongue posture and airway dimensions remain less understood. This study aims to comparatively evaluate these two treatment modalities to enhance orthodontic treatment planning.