Symphyseal mandibular distraction

Mandibular Symphyseal Distraction
This patient has a left-sided oral crossbite (scissor bite or telescopic occlusion). The right lower 1st premolar is absent and the lower anterior teeth have migrated distally. An underlying condition of generalized adult periodontitis was also present and was treated by Dr. Hugues Pelletier, periodontist.
Mandibular distraction provides a mandibular arch width coordinated with the upper arch.
Distraction lasts 23 days, with a 10-day latency period.
As the actuator tended to deactivate, the patient had the ingenious idea of blocking the mechanism with the tip of an interdental brush between activations.
Here’s the progress at the end of the distraction on December 20.