Evaluation of soft-tissue changes in young adults treated with the Forsus fatigue-resistant device

Introduction: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of the Forsus fatigue-resistant device (FRD) EZ2 appliance (3M Unitek, Monrovia, Calif) on facial soft tissues by using images obtained from cephalometric radiographs and 3-dimensional (3D) facial scanning system. Methods: A total of 20 patients treated with the Forsus FRD EZ2 appliance were included in this study. The cervical vertebral maturation index was used to determine growth and development stages, and the subjects were investigated at cervical vertebral maturation stages 5 and 6 (ie, postpeak period). Three-dimensional facial scanning images were obtained with 3dMD Face (3dMD Ltd, Atlanta, Ga). Cephalometric radiographic images were taken before placement of the appliance (T0), immediately after removal (T1), and at the 6-month (T2) follow-up after the removal of the appliance. For comparison of the data, one-way repeated-measures analysis of variance and paired t test were used at P < 0.05. Results: Statistically significant changes were found in the Wits value, IMPA, L1P-NB (degrees), L1-NB (mm), L1P-APog, U1P-L1P, overjet, overbite, Ls-E, and labiomental angle in T0-T1. In T0-T2, statistically significant changes in the Wits, IMPA, L1P-NB (degrees), overjet, overbite and Ls-E values were observed. Conclusions: The results revealed that the correction of malocclusion with Forsus FRD EZ2 appliance in patients at the postpeak period was mainly dentoalveolar. The soft tissues were affected to a limited extent. Three-dimensional facial scanning demonstrated similar accuracy and precision to traditional cephalometry, being a repeatable and accurate tool for linear and surface measurements.