American Board of Orthodontics (ABO) Practice Exam 2025 - Free Orthodontics Practice Questions and Study Guide

The Herbst appliance, when combined with a twin block, is particularly effective in increasing occlusal plane height due to its unique design and function. The Herbst appliance is a fixed orthodontic appliance that promotes the forward movement of the mandible while maintaining relationships with the maxilla. This forward positioning encourages the eruptive movement of the posterior teeth, which can significantly raise the occlusal plane.

When paired with the twin block, which is a removable functional appliance designed to improve the occlusion by repositioning the mandible, the treatment can effectively stimulate both the anterior and posterior teeth. This dual approach not only provides an increase in the occlusal plane height but also facilitates a more favorable dental and skeletal relationship, addressing issues associated with mild to moderate Class II malocclusions.

In contrast, other options such as just using a twin block, the MARA with a Bionator, or a Bionator alone may not achieve the same extent of occlusal plane height increase as the combination of the Herbst and twin block. While each of these appliances serves important roles in orthodontic treatment, they typically focus on varying aspects of dental alignment and jaw position without the combined mechanical advantages offered by the Herbst appliance's fixed nature and the twin block's functional