Several of our staff members are also clinically active within the University Dental Clinic or are affiliated with other specialist clinics, contributing to a rich and multifaceted learning environment. By combining academic excellence with clinical expertise, we provide a solid foundation for the future of orthodontics.
At the Division of Orthodontics, we conduct research on craniofacial development and how facial growth and occlusal relationships are affected by various orthodontic treatments.
We focus particularly on the origins and treatment outcomes in children with congenital facial malformations. Our studies explore the effectiveness of different treatment techniques and how best to retain teeth after orthodontic treatment is completed. We also investigate how patients perceive their quality of life before, during and after their occlusion has been corrected with braces. Additionally, we are interested in how the materials used in our treatments interact with the body.
Treatment Outcomes Following Multidisciplinary Care for Children with Cleft Lip and Palate
Children born with cleft lip and palate often experience inhibited maxillary growth, altered occlusal relationships, and dental anomalies. In collaboration with members of the Stockholm Craniofacial Team, we are studying facial growth, outcomes following bone grafting, occlusal development, and quality of life in patients after completed treatment.
Scandcleft: Randomized Studies on Primary Surgery in Unilateral Cleft Lip and Palate
Since 1997, we have actively participated in the Scandcleft trials, investigating the effects of four different surgical protocols for palatal repair on facial growth, occlusion, and dental development in patients born with unilateral cleft lip and palate. The study comprises 450 patients divided into three trials, with the objective of longitudinally monitoring outcomes until completion of growth and orthodontic treatment.
Genetic Etiology of Cleft Lip and Palate
Genetic research is conducted on patients with orofacial clefts, including syndromic forms such as Van der Woude syndrome. These studies are carried out in collaboration with the Department of Plastic Surgery at Karolinska University Hospital, as well as geneticists in Stockholm and Helsinki. Additional investigations focus on diagnostic refinement in cases of isolated cleft palate.
Quality of Life in Orthodontic Patients
Some individuals experience psychological distress related to malocclusion. Ongoing survey-based studies aim to assess the potential impact of orthodontic treatment on patients’ perceived quality of life, both during and after active therapy.
Retention Studies Following Orthodontic Treatment
Upon completion of active orthodontic treatment, patients typically receive a fixed retainer bonded to the lingual surfaces of the lower anterior teeth. The optimal type of retainer wire and the long-term changes in occlusion—up to five years post-treatment—remain subjects of investigation.
Studies on Orthodontic Materials
In collaboration with the Royal Institute of Technology (KTH) and the Nordic Institute of Dental Materials (NIOM), research is underway to evaluate the performance of miniscrews and composite materials in the oral environment.