Introduction. Maxillary compression syndrome (MCS) is characterized by a transverse and sagittal discrepancy in the size of the maxilla and mandible, leading to dento-maxillary anomalies (DMaN), masticatory muscle dysfunction, and significant craniofacial structural changes. The complexity of these conditions can have a considerable psycho-emotional impact on individuals and broader societal implications, making it a public health concern.
Over the years, dento-maxillary anomalies and their associated conditions have garnered increasing research attention. Research indicates that both the incidence of DMaN, including maxillary compression, and the prevalence of marginal periodontal disorders are rising, particularly among children and young adults. Maxillary compression presents with facial, oral, and radiological signs, along with various functional impairments. The characteristics of each malformation are influenced by its interaction with affected tissues. Recognizing clinical signs is essential for establishing both a definitive and differential diagnosis.
The aim of the study. To evaluate diagnostic methods and identify preventive strategies for maxillary compression syndrome.
Materials and Methods To establish diagnostic and preventive strategies for maxillary compression syndrome, the following methods were employed: clinical examination, complementary examination, photometric examination, biometric study of models, radiological examination (OPG and lateral cephalometric analysis using the Steiner, Tweed-Merrifield, and Ricketts methods), cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT), determination of bone density of the midpalatal suture, and rhinomanometry investigation.
The study was conducted within the Department of Orthodontics at the „Nicolae Testemițanu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy from 2016 to 2022. The study included 165 patients aged 6–18 years, with a mean age of 13.2±0.23 years and a median age of 13 years. Of the study participants, 104 (63.0%; 95% CI [55.8–70.3]) were girls, and 61 (37.0%; 95% CI [29.7–44.2]) were boys with maxillary compression.
Results. The research results allowed the identification of additional indices and the estimation of relevant diagnostic methods for maxillary compression syndrome (MCS). According to global statistics, the prevalence of this condition varies around 25.2%. The incidence of MCS is constantly increasing, and this research has led to the implementation of new and updated studies for the early detection and diagnosis of this pathology, identifying predisposing factors for the development of dental occlusion disorders.
The study found that half of the children exhibited harmful oral habits, necessitating preventive and corrective interventions.
Conclusions. Accurate diagnosis of maxillary compression syndrome (MCS) requires an understanding of both static and dynamic parameters, occlusal guidance, fulcrum presence, dental attrition, malocclusion type, and temporomandibular joint disorders. The proposed diagnostic methods for maxillary compression syndrome (MCS) are essential for developing individualized treatment plans based on the degree of midpalatal suture ossification, facilitating appropriate maxillary expansion strategies for different age groups.
Keywords: maxillary compression, predisposing factors, interdisciplinary diagnos