Accelerated development of the first and second mandibular molars after distraction osteogenesis of the mandible in patients with hemifacial microsomia.

Although distraction osteogenesis of the mandible in patients with hemifacial microsomia (HFM) before the mixed dentition period is widely performed, long-term follow-up information on dental problems is limited. We evaluated the long-term effect of distraction osteogenesis on dental development by comparing Nolla's developmental stages of the first and second molars between the affected and unaffected sides of the mandible. Forty-five patients with unilateral HFM who received distraction osteogenesis of the mandible between the ages of 5 and 8 years and whose dental status was followed for more than 2 years were selected for this study.