Twenty-year excellent retention after total maxillary arch distalization for Class II malocclusion correction

Abstract

This case report update highlights the long-term occlusal stability after total maxillary arch distalization using orthodontic miniscrews. During treatment, the maxillary molars were distalized by 3.5 mm on the left and 4.5 mm on the right to relieve crowding and to achieve bilateral Class I molar relationships. The maxillary incisors were also retracted by 3 mm. Over a 20-year retention period, the occlusion remained remarkably stable, although age-related soft-tissue changes were observed. © 2025 American Association of Orthodontists.