Class III malocclusions in deciduous or early mixed dentition: an early orthopaedic treatment.

BACKGROUND: An early approach to Class III malocclusions is crucial. From diagnosis to treatment, the aim is be to correct and harmonise maxillary and mandibular growth as quickly as possible. CASE REPORT: A new treatment protocol for the early treatment of Class III malocclusions to be used in children in deciduous teething and/or early mixed teething was proposed. Ten children, 6 females and 4 males, with an overall average age of 6.5 years (6 years and 6 months) at time T0 were included in this experimental study. Twelve months orthopaedic interceptive therapy using two protraction facemasks (Delaire and Petit mask) and two types of extraoral elastic bands (8 and 16 oz) were given. Parents/guardians were involved as much as possible to increase compliance with the treatment. CONCLUSION: The orthopaedic-interceptive treatment for Class III malocclusion intends to provide a potential improvement of the growth response so that significant results can be achieved quickly. The motivational role of the parent can positively influence the child's treatment cooperation. The clinician should then try to make parents understand the importance of early treatment of Class III malocclusion thus obtaining a full cooperation with the parent/ guardian and a good compliance from the child.

Myofunctional therapy Part 3: Tongue function and breastfeeding as precursor of oronasal functions.

Breastfeeding is the best practice to ensure proper nutrition, correct growth of the craniofacial complex and overall health of the baby with optimal breathing, feeding and sleeping functions. Many mothers face breastfeeding problems due to the baby's difficulty in latching, especially if the lingual frenum is restricted. Early detection and understanding of some of the root causes of those difficulties will lead to an early intervention, thus getting the babies on the right tract of their full potential of growth and development.