Change in Vertical Dimension of Class II, Div I Patients after use of Cervical- or High-Pull Headgear

Purpose: The goal of this study was to compare the effects that cervical pull and high pull headgear have on the vertical dimension in class II, division I patients. Methods: Pre- and post- treatment cephalometric radiographs of children who have undergone class II division I correction with cervical-pull or high-pull headgear were analyzed for the measurements which describe the changes in the vertical component of growth and mandibular position. The groups were matched for age, treatment time, malocclusion, and similar skeletal features. Results: Treatment with cervical pull headgear resulted in less of an increase in measurements which describe the vertical dimension than high pull headgear. Cervical pull headgear controls the vertical dimension of facial growth better than high pull headgear. IRB protocol number: 2013-1148.