EVDF OSLO NORWAY 2025

Small Animal Dentistry | Essentials

Orthodontics: Rostral cross bite correction

Loïc Legendre, DVM, DAVDC, DEVDC, AVDC-ZWD Rostral Cross Bite, Northwest Veterinary Dental Services Ltd.

Introduction
Rostral cross bite is the third most common malocclusion encountered in dogs. It is more complex as it can involve from to 6 pairs of incisors. It is seen with both class I and class III malocclusions.

Treatment
There are several ways correct these malocclusions; the choice will depend on the exact presentation. One can use labial arches and lingual bars or modified Maryland bridges or even brackets, buttons and NITI wires. Brackets allow the operator to build the appliance directly in the patient’s mouth but they are not simple to apply. Modified Maryland bridges, arches and bars require the help of a laboratory to make and thus necessitate and extra anesthesia to install. Bridges with universal screws require adjustments every 2 days. Arches and bars every 10 to 14 days whereas Niti wires are usually set for the whole move. This presentation will cover the advantages, disadvantages and details of each technique. References available upon request.