Background/Objectives: The optimal timing for orthodontic treatment in pediatric patients with malocclusion, particularly Class II discrepancies, remains a topic of ongoing clinical debate. Early treatment during the mixed dentition stage harnesses craniofacial growth potential, whereas later intervention may capitalize on pubertal growth for greater skeletal correction, especially for skeletal and airway improvements. This systematic review aimed to compare the outcomes of early versus late orthodontic treatment to assess their relative effectiveness. Methods: A systematic review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines, including randomized controlled trials and observational studies published between 2015 and 2025. Eleven studies comparing early and late treatment were analyzed, and the risk of bias was evaluated using standardized assessment tools. Results: Of the eleven studies, eight reported statistically significant improvements favoring early orthodontic intervention. Early treatment was associated with greater enhancement of maxillary and mandibular arch development, improved jaw relationships, and expanded airway dimensions. Studies utilizing headgear or other growth-modifying appliances also showed more favorable eruption patterns and alignment, underscoring the clinical relevance of early-phase management. Conclusions: Early orthodontic treatment can provide meaningful benefits in guiding skeletal growth, improving dental arch form, and enhancing treatment efficiency. These benefits were most consistently supported in skeletal and airway outcome domains. While late treatment may be suitable for some cases, personalized planning remains essential. Further large-scale, standardized longitudinal studies are needed to refine treatment-timing protocols in pediatric orthodontics.

Background and Objectives: Elastodontic appliances made of medical-grade silicone are increasingly used in interceptive orthodontics, but prolonged intraoral exposure may affect their stability. This study evaluated structural changes in LM-Activator^TM 2 appliances after clinical use, using Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. Materials and Methods: Eight appliances (one unused control and seven worn for 3–24 months) were analyzed by FTIR-ATR in the 4000–650 cm⁻¹ range. Absorption bands characteristic of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) were quantified, and indices reflecting backbone crosslinking, side-group retention, hydrophilicity, and relative reduction in methyl-related spectral contributions were calculated. Results: The PDMS backbone remained chemically intact across all samples. However, progressive molecular reorganization was detected with wear duration. The Backbone Dominance Index increased significantly from control to 24 months, while side-group indices decreased, confirming apparent depletion of methyl-related FTIR bands. Hydrophilicity and crosslinking indices rose over time, particularly after 12 months, indicating increased surface polarity and network densification. Conclusions: LM-Activator^TM 2 appliances undergo gradual intraoral aging, marked by backbone crosslinking and apparent reduction in methyl-associated vibrational contributions inferred from FTIR ratio side-groups. These changes, while not compromising the polymer identity, may influence surface properties, biofilm retention, and long-term mechanical behavior. Periodic replacement is recommended to ensure optimal clinical performance.

Aim of Study: This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of two disinfection methods—chemical-based cleaning with antibacterial tablets and a combination of UVC light and tablets—on silicone interception devices used in interceptive orthodontic treatment. Materials and Methods: Four devices were sectioned into three equal parts and divided into three groups: control (untreated), chemically cleaned (MyOClean antibacterial tablets), and disinfected with UVC light and tablets. Microbial samples were collected, cultured on UTI Chromogenic and Blood Agar media, and analyzed for bacterial growth and antibiotic susceptibility. Results and Discussion: The control group showed bacterial positivity within 24 hours, whereas the chemically and UVC-treated groups delayed bacterial growth to 48 hours, demonstrating the effectiveness of these methods in reducing bacterial contamination. Antibiograms of Staphylococcus aureus revealed high susceptibility to most antibiotics, with intermediate susceptibility noted for ciprofloxacin. Conclusion: The combination of UVC light and antibacterial tablets showed statistically superior disinfection outcomes (p ≤ 0.05) and represents a promising strategy for improving the hygiene of orthodontic appliances. These findings provide evidence-based recommendations for reducing microbial contamination and addressing antimicrobial resistance in orthodontic practice.