Treatment Modalities for Skeletal Class III Malocclusion: Early to Late Treatment.

ABSTRACT

Skeletal Class III malocclusion has always been characterized by an unpredictable growth pattern with doubtful prognosis though treated at a very young age. Treatment protocols may include growth modification, orthodontic camouflage, or orthognathic surgery, depending on the degree of the skeletal discrepancy and the age of the patient. The orthopedic approach for growth modification is limited to the children in a growth phase. In a patient with underdeveloped maxilla, the face mask may be the treatment of choice, whereas in a Class III patient with over developed mandible a chin cap is needed. Camouflage orthodontic treatment is performed in patients with a mild skeletal Class III discrepancy and no remaining growth. However, adult patients with severe skeletal Class III discrepancy might need orthognathic surgery to correct the malocclusion.