3D-Printed jaw expanders could make treatment easier for kids
NCT ID NCT07599202
First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Sep 04, 2026 · Updated 2 times
Summary
This study looks at two types of devices used to widen a child's narrow upper jaw: a traditional one made in a dental lab and a newer 3D-printed version. Researchers want to see if the 3D-printed device works as well, causes less pain, and is more comfortable for children aged 7 to 11. The 48 participants will be randomly assigned to one device and followed for several months.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only, not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- Rapid maxillary expansion appliance (dental device)
- What this could lead to
- If successful, this could show that 3D-printed expanders are just as effective and more comfortable than traditional ones, offering a better experience for children needing jaw expansion.
- What could go wrong
- This is a small, early-stage study with only 48 children, so results may not apply to everyone. The devices are already in use, so no major new risks are expected, but comfort and effectiveness may vary.
This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.
Study facts
What this study's own registry entry says, in plain language.
- Phase
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Not a phased trial
Phase numbers describe drug development. The registry uses this when they do not apply, as it does for trials of devices, procedures or behaviour changes, and for observational studies.
- Participants
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48 people
The number who actually took part.
- Started
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Aug 2025
- Expected to finish
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Dec 2026
An estimate. End dates often move.
- Lead sponsor
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Other sponsor
The registry's catch-all category, for sponsors it does not file as a company, a government agency, or a research network.
Who can take part
This study's own entry requirements. Only the study team can say for certain whether you qualify.
- Ages
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7 to 11 years
- Sex
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Anyone
- Healthy volunteers
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Not accepted
This study is not open to healthy volunteers. The entry requirements below say who it is open to.
Show the full entry requirements Hide the full entry requirements
Copied word for word from the study's registry entry, so the wording is the study team's rather than ours.
Inclusion Criteria: * Children aged between 7 and 11 years * In the mixed dentition period * Fully erupted permanent first molars * Presence of primary canines and primary second molars suitable for use as anchorage units for at least 6 months * Angle Class I or Class II molar relationship * Presence of posterior crossbite and/or moderate maxillary transverse deficiency or moderate crowding * Prepubertal growth stage corresponding to Cervical Vertebral Maturation Stage 1 (CVM1) or Stage 2 (CVM2) * Receiving orthodontic treatment at the Başkent University Department of Orthodontics * Parents or legal guardians willing to provide written informed consent Exclusion Criteria: * Previous orthodontic treatment * Periodontal disease * Enamel hypocalcification or significant calcium deficiency * Root resorption * Signs or symptoms of temporomandibular joint dysfunction * Angle Class III molar relationship * Craniofacial syndromes * Cleft lip and/or palate * Known allergy to acrylic materials or metal alloys * Inability to maintain adequate oral hygiene during treatment * Lack of cooperation during treatment * Repeated appliance breakage or dislodgement (three or more times)
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As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
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Baskent University Faculty of Dentistry, Department of Orthodontics
Ankara, 06490, Turkey (Türkiye)