Does Early Orthodontic Treatment in Mixed Dentition Improve Long-Term Outcomes? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

ABSTRACT: Background and Objectives: Early orthodontic intervention during the mixed dentition phase is commonly used to intercept developing malocclusions and potentially reduce the need for more complex treatment later. However, there is limited and conflicting evidence regarding the long-term stability of such early interventions, particularly in comparison to delayed treatment or no treatment at all. This systematic review aims to address this gap by critically evaluating and synthesizing the available evidence on the long-term skeletal and dental outcomes, following early orthodontic treatment in children aged 6-12 years versus delayed or no intervention. Materials and Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted across electronic databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Scie

SUBMITTER: Almugla YM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12565956 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature