Treatment stategies of Class III malocclusion based on long term follow up study

Sung, Jae Hyun

Abstract

The author obtained some useful information for the class III treatment from long term observation on the growing patients with class III malocclusion. 8 patients were selected for this study and presentation. From these observation so far my conclusions might be as follows: First, in the early correction of the anterior cross bite, considerable forward growth changes were observed in the maxilla. Second, as for the growth modification of jaws by orthopedic treatment, only limited effects were recognized from the long-term observation. Third, at early age of patients with anterior crossbite, any data couldn't make me predict the stability after treatment on the long-term basis. Fortunately, however, gonial angle showed a marginal possibility of it prediction. Fourth, at an advanced age/retraction orthopedic force on the mandible and the rapid change in the mandibular position may cause some trouble in the T.M.joint. Finally, the followings are recommendable. As for the anterior crossbite, correct it early as possible, and use orthopedic force under the age of ten. Do not enter the phase II treatment directly. Just wait and observe until the growth were almost completed, focusing on some important factors such as airway problem, tongue position, and third molar development. Of course, these factors may have some effects on the mandibular growth. For the female, at the age of around 14 years old and the male, around 17 years old, make a final decision whether the patients will continue to be treated orthodontically or surgically, Thereby, (I think) the relapse and retreatment problem after treatment we have observed so far might be minimized. Furthermore, the active treatment time may be also reduced.