Treatment of midline shift by asymmetric premaxillary distraction: a case report -

Premaxillary distraction osteogenesis is a new method used to correct mild mid-face deficiency. In the presented case asymmetric application of this technique is used. A patient with upper midline shifting 3mm to the left side, Class I molar relationship, and slight anterior cross bite was referred to our clinic for orthodontic treatment. Retrusion of the upper incisors and midline shifting created a space deficiency at the left side of the maxillary arch and the left canine was positioned at vestibule, over the lateral incisor and first premolar teeth. Premaxillary segment was distracted asymmetrically by a tooth-born metal casting distractor designed in our clinic. At the end of treatment midline shift, anterior cross bite, and concave profile were corrected. Additionally, the required space for the alignment of the left canine was gained by the increase of the maxillary arch perimeter.