Effects of the Class II Carriere motion appliance in phase I treatment: A randomized controlled trial

Objective: To assess the skeletal, dento-alveolar and dental effects of the class II Carriere motion® on young subjects.

Materials and Methods: 32 class II subjects (mean age 9.4 ± 1.6 years) were randomly allocated to either the Carriere motion® appliance group (n=15), or to a control group (n=17). Digital dental cast measurements and cephalometric analysis were performed before treatment (T0), at removal of the device for the appliance group, and after a period of 9 months for the control group (T1). The duration of treatment was recorded and the patient’s satisfaction with the appliance was assessed through a questionnaire.

Results: The effects of the Carriere Motion leading to Class I were essentially dento-alveolar. Significant decreases of ANB and SNA angles were evidenced, as well as an increase by 1.3 degree of FMA angle compared to control subjects. Distalization and distal rotation of upper molars were observed. The mandibular teeth mesialized and the lower incisors proclined. A clockwise rotation of the occlusal plane occurred. The treatment lasted 7.6 ± 1.6 months with a mean of 6.1 ± 1.1 appointments. The patient experience with the Carriere motion® was quite positive.

Conclusion: The Carriere motion® proved its efficiency in correcting class II malocclusion, essentially by dento-alveolar effects. This easy-to-use appliance is indicated in early orthodontic treatment, when the correction is urgently required (prevention of incisor trauma in case of large overjet, periodontal risk for upper incisor in case of deep bite and sleep apnea).