Overjet reduction in relation to wear time with the van Beek activator combined with a microsensor

Introduction: The aim of this study was to use a microsensor to investigate the association among overjet reduction, treatment duration, and wear time of the van Beek activator. Methods: The study sample comprised patients (n = 28) with a mean age of 11.60 (±1.25) years at start of treatment treated with the van Beek activator. The prescribed wear time was 12 hours per day. The evaluation period was limited to the first 3 appointments. The wear times during the 3 intervals were assessed. Treatment periods with good compliance were characterized by a wear time of 8 hours or more per day. Results: The medians of overjet were 9.00 mm at the start of treatment and 5.75 mm at the third appointment. The mean total wear time throughout the evaluation period was 7.75 (±3.66) hours per day. Significant correlations were found at the 3 intervals. Patients with a mean wear time of 8 hours or more per day achieved significantly greater overjet reductions. Patients with good compliance of at least 5 months showed significantly greater overjet reductions. Conclusions: Significant overjet reduction was achieved with a minimum daily wear time of 8 hours for at least 5 months. The level of compliance had a strong tendency to be maintained throughout the treatment period. No patient achieved the prescribed wear time of 12 hour per day.