NON SURGICAL CORRECTION OF CLASS III MALOCCLUSION

WHAT IS CLASS III MALOCCLUSION

ETIOLOGY OF CLASS III
CLASSIFICATION OF CLASS III
CHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF CLSS III
CEPHALOMETRIC AND FUNCTIONAL ASSESMENT
EARLY TREATMENT
------------RME
------------FACE MASK
------------FACE MASK AND WITH AND WITHOUT RME
-----------FUNCTIONAL APPLIANCES
-----------TWO PIECE BITE CORRECTOR
-----------CHIN CUP

TREATMENT IN PERMANENT DENTITION

CAMOFLAGUE EXTRACTION PATTERN
BIOMECHANICS IN CLASS III

ATTACHED GINGIVA
BONE (ALVEOLAR HOUSING)
TOOTH SIZE DISCREPANCY
ASSOCIATED MAISSING/IMPACTED AND MICRODONTIA
SOFT TISSUE CONSIDERATION
RETENTION
What is a Class Three? The true genetic Class III growth pattern is the opposite of the
most common orthodontic problem which is retrusion of the lower jaw. In the Class III
the lower jaw is protrusive and it may be mistakenly referred to as an "under bite". In
reality, the lower jaw is too long relative to the rest of the face, and the chin appears to
protrude too far in front of the rest of the face.The true Class III is a genetically directed
problem which may express itself at an early age, but usually becomes more apparent as
the child approaches the teenage growth spurt. Generally, we will find a parent or
grandparent with the exact same problem on one side of the family. It is helpful to review
pictures of older family members and play detective to discover "which" side of the
family the problem originates.

The true Class III is not an all or none problem. There are varying degrees in the amount
of abnormal growth which can occur in the lower jaw. Once the lower teeth move out in
front of the upper incisors, the muscles influence their position and the size of the chin
comes into play to determine how "bad" the condition looks.

According to ANGLE class III malocclusion is defined as class III molar relation with
the mesio – buccal cusp of the maxillary first permanent molar occluding in the
interdental space between the mandibular first and second molars. Or lower molar is
ahead of the first molar by a distance of the width of a premolar or half the width of a
molar.

ETIOLOGY:
Although it is difficult to know the precise cause of most malocclusions, we do know in
general what the possibilities are, and these must be considered during treatment.

1.TERATOGENS:
Cleft lip and palate result in maxillary deficiency in most occasions a class III
malocclusion is established. Teratogens causing cleft lip and palate are aspirin, cigarette
smoke (hypoxia), Dilantin, 6-Mercaptopurine, valium etc
Vitamin D excess causes premature closure of sutures and might lead to class III
malocclusion

2. ACROMEGALY AND HEMI MANDIBULAR HYPERTROPHY:

Acromegaly is caused by anterior pituitary tumour that secretes excessive amount
of growth harmone. Here excessive mandibular growth occurs creating a skeletal class III
malocclusion. Often the mandibular growth accelerates to levels seen in the adult growth
spurt, years after the adolescent growth spurt is completed. The reason for
hemimandibular hypertrophy is unknown. Formerly called condylar hypoplasia it is know
called a hemi mandibular hypertrophy as a body of mandible is affected. This condition
leads to a class III with asymmetry

3. GENETIC INFLUENCES:
Best known examples of genetic influences are the classic HAPSBURG JAW and
the prognathic mandible of Austrian royal family. The influence of inherited tendencies
is strong for mandibular prognathism in particular (most inherited condition followed by
long face pattern which is second.
Litton et al (AJO 1970) concluded that one third of a group of children who presented
with a severe class III malocclusion had a parent with the same problem and one sixth
had an affected sibling.
4.ENVIRONMENTAL INFLUENCES:
Large tongue as in the case of thyroid deficiency can contribute to a mandibular
prognathism by causing the mandible to be positioned forward all times.
Rakosi and Schilli suggested mouth breathing in the etiology of class III
malocclusions. They hypothesized that excessive mandibular growth could arise as a
result of abnormal mandibular posture because constant distraction of the mandibular
condyle from the fossa may be a growth stimulus.

5.The posterior ‘squeezing out’ effect of molar crowding

There has been discussion of posterior crowding as a factor in the development of Class
III malocclusions. The theory suggests that a squeezing out effect can occur because of
crowding in the molar regions, which can contribute to an anterior open-bite
malocclusion in a mandible with poor vertical growth in the ramus area . Alternatively,
good ramus growth can lead to a Class III malocclusion. This concept is not well
understood, and has not been fully investigated

INCIDENCE OF CLASS III MALOCCLUSION:

The incidence of skeletal Class III malocclusion in the white population is approximately
5%. The mid face deficiency is high in Asian population which increases the frequency
of malocclusion. The incidence of this malocclusion ranges between 4%and 13% among
the Japanese and 4% and 14% among the Chinese. A lesser incidence of class III
malocclusion is seen among African- Americans. The incidence has been reported to be
significantly higher in the Scandinavian and Japanese populations.

INITIAL SYMPTOMS OF CLASS III MALOCCLUSION

Early signs of true progressive mandibular prognathism occasionally can occur in

infancy. In the first months of life a sequential development of the class III condition may
be observed as:
1. Eruption of the maxillary central incisors in a lingual relationship and the
mandibular incisors in a forward position with no overjet.
2. Development of an incisal crossbite during the eruption of the lateral incisors into
a normal relationship.
3. Full incisor cross bites some weeks later.
4. Flattening of the tongue as it drops away from the palatal contact and postures
forward, pressing against the lower incisors
5. Habitual protraction of the mandible by the child into the protruded functional and
morphologic relationship.
CLINICAL EXAMINATION

The configuration and form of the forehead and nose in relation to the lower face are
significant for esthetic evaluation and prognosis. A well formed Naso labial angle is
important for esthetic improvement. If the angle is acute, the premaxilla segment can be
retracted if the angle is obtuse; the segment must be protracted to improve facial
esthetics. The soft tissue of the chin can compensate for or accentuate a skeletal class III
relationship depending on its thickness. Gingival retraction or dehiscence can often be
seen in early class III malocclusion. This damage is irreversible and is an indication for
early treatment
The next step is examination of the dentition, including the morphology and
number of teeth. Congenital absence in the maxilla (e.g., missing canine or first premolar
teeth) makes treatment more difficult.
When evaluating tile axial inclination of the teeth, certain disadvantageous
irregularities such as labial tipping of the upper incisors and lingual tipping of the lower
incisors still in anterior cross bite should be noted . A concavity of the lingual alveolar
structure in the mandible also is a clue to future difficulties in the correction of Class III
malocclusion. Crowding of maxillary teeth also enhances treatment problems; treatment
may require extraction of the counterpart teeth in the lower arch, leading to great
difficulty in closing spaces and maintaining proper incisor axial inclination. To make
treatment easier if extractions are required, extractions are performed in the mandible
before proceeding to those in the maxilla. Depending on the state of development,
enucleation or germectomy may be feasible for the lower first premolars. The molar
occlusal relationship is usually Class III, but the plane of occlusion also should be
evaluated because its correction may be necessary before surgery

FUNCTIONAL ANALYSIS:

The path of closure is from the postural rest position to occlusion must be carefully
studied. The mandible may slide anteriorly into a forced protrusion because of premature
contact and tooth guidance when the jaw closes into full occlusion. Such anterior
displacements have more favorable prognosis. In contrast, patients with problems caused
by an anterior rest position with respect to habitual occlusion are difficult to treat and
usually require orthognathic surgery.
In addition to this pseudo-forced bite category also exists. This is a skeletal
class III with a dental compensation arising from labial tipping of the upper incisors on a
deficient maxillary base and lingual tipping of the lower incisors on an excessively long
mandible. Orthodontic pre surgical treatment must decompensate these malpositions
before surgical procedures can be performed.

TEMPOROMANDIBULAR JOINT ASSESMENT:

If the condyle occupies the most posterior position in the temporal fossa the likelihood of
its riding over the posterior periphery of the articular disk is increased with concomitant
clicking and lateral crepitus,.
Abnormal tongue function, size and posture must be considered. The tongue may be
postured low in the mouth and be flat and elongated, especially in cases of mouth
breathing. In cases of Macroglossia the tongue is not contained within the dentition and
the scalloping effect of the tooth contact may be visible on the periphery.

LIP FUNCTION AND MORPHOLOGICAL ASSESMENT

A short hypotonic upper lip is often seen in combination with a heavy, redundant, everted
lower lip.

CEPHALOMETRIC ASSESMENT OF CLASS III:

Several studies have expanded on these findings in an attempt to compare Class III
malocclusion with Class I controls relative to the morphology of the maxilla, the
mandible, and the cranial base. These differences include the following:
1. The SNA angle is significantly lower in the Class III samples, indicating a greater
degree of maxillary retrusion.
2. Mandibular protrusion is greater in the Class III samples.
3. The mean ANB angle in the Class III samples is negative.
4. The gonial angle is more obtuse in the Class III samples.
5. The mandibular plane angle is steeper than normal in the Class III samples.
6. Lower anterior face height is significantly greater in the Class III samples.
7. The sella angle and articular angle were smaller in class III samples.
8. Anterior position of the mandible is seen.

CEPHALOMETRIC CLASSIFICATION

CLASS III MALOCCLUSION CAUSED BY A DENTO ALVEOLAR

MALRELATIONSHIP

1. No basal sagittal discrepancy is apparent

2. The sub spinale -nasion-supra mentale (ANB angle) is within normal limits.
3. Maxillary incisors tipped lingually and mandibular incisors tipped labially

CLASS III MALOCCLUSION WITH A STRONG MANDIBULAR BASE

1. Mandibular base and ascending ramus are large

2. SNA angle is normal
3. SNB angle is larger than normal.
4. ANB angle is negative
5. Gonial angle is usually large
6. Articular angle is usually small.
7. Anteriorly positioned mandible
8. The tongue is postured forward and lies low in the mouth
9. The upper incisors are tipped labially
 10. The lower incisors are inclined lingually
11. Lateral cross bites are often evident
12. Maxillary arch appears to be narrowed.

CLASS III MALOCCLUSION WITH AN UNDER DEVELOPED MAXILLA

1. Maxillary base is small and retrognathic

2. Smaller SNA angle
3. Normal SNB angle
4. Mid face deficiency and some cases of associated cleft palates are seen

CLASS III MALOCCLUSION WITH A COMBINED UNDERDEVELOPED

MAXILLA AND A PROMINENT MANDIBLE

1. SNA angle is small and maxillary base is short

2. SNB angle is large and the mandibular base is large
In a patient with short ramus:
1. Growth pattern is vertical and the gonial angle is large.
2. Often open bite is seen
3. Crowding in the upper arch
In a patient with long ramus:
1. Growth pattern is horizontal and gonial angle is small
2. Reversed over bite is apparent

CLASS III MALOCCLUSION WITH A PSEUDO FORCED BITE OR ANTERIOR

DISPLACEMENT

1. The condition known as class III skeletal dysplasia is partially compensated by the
labial tipping of the upper incisors and the lingual inclination of the lower incisors
2. This tooth mal position results in additional anterior guidance of the mandible on
the path from postural rest to the habitual occlusion as the lingual aspect of the
lower incisors rides on the maxillary incisor margins after initial contact

PSEUDO CLASS III MALOCCLUSION:

Moyer’s suggested pseudo–Class III malocclusion as a positional mal

relationship with an acquired neuro-muscular reflex. Pseudo–Class III malocclusion has
been identified with anterior crossbite as a result of mandibular displacement.
Premature contact between the maxillary and mandibular incisors results in forward
displacement of the mandible in pseudo Class III malocclusion so as to disengage the
incisors and permit further closure into the position in which the posterior teeth occluded.
Several reports attributed the incisor interference to the retroclined upper incisors and
proclined lower incisors in pseudo–Class III malocclusion.
 Based on clinical assessment, Turley and Lin reported that pseudo Class
III malocclusion showed some degree of hereditary tendency

Clinical Examination (RABIE 2000 AJO)

Clinical examination of pseudo–Class III malocclusion revealed that 75% of the
examined cases showed a mesial step, which corresponds to Angle’s Class I at HO and
showed a normal relationship of the primary molar that is a flush terminal plane at CR.
Diagnostic characteristics of pseudo–Class III malocclusion could be summarized as:
1. Majority showed no family history.
2. Class I molar and canine relationships at HO and Class II or end to end
relationship at CR.
3. Decreased midface length.
4. Forward position of the mandible with normal mandibular length.
5. Retroclined upper incisors and normal lower incisors.
6. Retrusive upper lip.

The timing of Class III treatment

Early correction of mandibular
Displacements

These should be identified at dental age 8 or 9, soon after the permanent incisors erupt.
This incisor relationship has the potential to restrict maxillary development and
encourage mandibular growth, thereby worsening the Class III problem. This is similar to
the effect of a functional appliance in Class II treatment.
Normally, such displacements can be corrected by simple tooth movements, and it is
important for treatment to be provided at an early age. Subsequently, unrestricted
maxillary development can resume, and if the condyles are centered in the fossae, this
will eliminate the potential ‘functional appliance’ effect of the original mandibular
displacement.

Maxillary retrognathism

Growing patients who present with maxillary retrognathism should be considered for
early expansion and development of the maxilla. This may involve the use of rapid
maxillary expansion and a reverse headgear. Subsequently, a palatal bar can be used to
stabilize the skeletal change, and then full fixed appliance treatment can be commenced
at approximately 12 years of age.

Borderline surgical cases

In some cases with mandibular excess, the diagnosis will suggest that mandibular surgery
may be needed. It is helpful to delay orthodontic treatment for such cases, if possible.
This will allow assessment of growth patterns, using regular cephalometric radiographs,
so that a more informed surgical/non-surgical decision can be reached.

Class III surgical cases

Some cases are clearly Class III surgical cases from the outset, and should not be treated
until all growth has ceased. Timing will be agreed with the surgeon, and may be beyond
the age of 20 years in males and a little earlier in females.

The surgical/non-surgical decision in Class III treatment

As with Class III treatment, it is important to recognize those Class III cases which have
a major skeletal disproportion, either at the time of assessment, or where there is a
probability of unfavorable growth. For such individuals, it will be necessary to consider a
surgical/orthodontic solution. Treatment on the basis of orthodontics alone should be
delayed, or discarded as a
Situation A – A Surgical/ orthodontic correction to an ideal result: determined that
mandibular surgery will be required, then the surgeon will normally wait until all growth
has finished, which may be as late as 22 years of age in males. The surgeon will then
require the orthodontist to decompensate the incisors. Correction will be achieved by A/P
realignment of the mandible and/or maxilla, with transverse correction of the maxilla if
necessary. This should lead to an optimal facial and dental result.
Situation B – orthodontic masking of a mild Class III skeletal case. As an alternative
to ‘A’ above, if the underlying skeletal discrepancy is mild, it may be decided to follow a
treatment plan based on orthodontics alone. This will allow correction to be commenced
much earlier, and the patient will be informed of the possibility of late mandibular
growth. The problem is solved by ‘masking’ the underlying Class III discrepancy by
dental compensation. This will involve Proclination of upper incisors and retroclination
of lower incisors. Good patient cooperation with Class III elastics and/or a face mask will
normally be needed in this type of treatment. This should lead to an acceptable dental and
facial outcome without the need for orthognathic surgery.
Situation C – late mandibular growth. After orthodontic masking of a mild Class III
malocclusion, late mandibular growth can occur, especially in males. This is a difficult
situation to manage. Sometimes the patient will find the late change in dental and facial
outcome acceptable, and seek no further treatment. However, if mandibular surgery is
deemed necessary, there is limited scope for facial improvement from the surgery,
because of the dentally compensated teeth. The incisors will need to be decompensated
by orthodontics before surgery, if there is to be an optimal facial benefit from the surgery.
The treatment of Class III malocclusions is relatively easy when the problem is confined
to the alveolar bone, but when the deformity is in the basal bone such as in a deficient
maxilla or overgrowth of the mandible, and then the malocclusion does not respond
readily to treatment and tends to recur after treatment.

EARLY TREATMENT OF CLASS III MALOCCLUSION:

The “Doctrine of limitations” was in full swing in the 40”s and 50”s.Early treatment was
condemned except for serial extractions. The view that prevailed then was that skeletal
alteration was impossible and that the dominance of genetic morphologic pattern was so
great that it included unaltered muscle patterns. Further any treatment on the deciduous
dentition was held to be so temporary that it had no effect on the permanent dentition.
But evidence based researches have led to many favorable conclusions for early
treatment. Class III malocclusion, in particular gets the nod from many authors in favor
of early treatment .Starting with Tweed, treatment timings can be as early as 4 years of
age.
Rickets (AJO 2000) has summarized the main objectives of early treatment lying in five
concepts
1. Obtaining a skeletal change (structural)
2. Providing the opportunity of a functional change in the environment
3. Utilization of the individual growth towards the correction.
4. Elimination of the detrimental habits (breathing etc)
5. Taking advantage of the forces of the occlusal development towards the correction.

Turpin has developed a list of positive and negative factors to aid in deciding when to
interrupt a developing class III malocclusion

POSITIVE FACTORS:

1. Good facial esthetics

2. Mild skeletal disharmony
3. No familial prognathism
4. Antero posterior functional shift
5. Convergent facial type
6. Symmetric condylar growth
7. Growing patients with expected good cooperation.

If the above factors are not present in the patient, they are listed as negative and treatment
can be delayed until growth is completed.
There are some general treatment considerations which should be
mentioned. One is that it may be logical to start treatment as early as possible, even as
early as 4 years of age, when we want to produce forward maxillary movement or to
inhibit or redirect mandibular growth. Early treatment does not necessarily mean
protracted treatment. It can be readily divided into two stages.
The first phase of active treatment may last only 8 to 12 months, which can be
sufficiently long to reduce the severity of the malocclusion or to correct the problem. The
second phase of treatment should begin just before exfoliation of the second deciduous
molar. In this manner, we hope to obtain the best compromise between long treatment
and optimal results.

PERMANENT DENTITION THERAPY:

Another treatment consideration is that extraction therapy may have limited applicability
in Class III treatment. For example, we would not want to limit extractions to the lower
arch because many times the incisors are generally inclined lingually and extraction
treatment tends to increase this inclination, possibly beyond the limits of the lingual plate
of bone. Also, extractions may be contraindicated when orthodontic treatment must be
combined with surgical treatment.
A third consideration is that many of the forces in conventional orthodontics carry risks
because of the unfavorable growth pattern in patients with Class III malocclusions. For
example, many patients with Class III malocclusions have an increased vertical face
height, particularly of the lower anterior part of the face, with an open-bite. In these
patients, Class III elastics and second-order bends in the posterior regions cannot be used
conveniently because the extrusive force components on posterior teeth can open the bite
and increase the vertical dimension further. Particular attention must be paid to the use of
Class III elastics because they can also extrude the mandibular incisors, and there is
frequently excessive vertical dentoalveolar development in the incisor region.
Since many of the conventional treatment procedures have limitations, we should
consider the use of extra oral traction because appropriate force systems can be placed
with fewer deleterious side effects.

There are three important diagnostic principles which merit attention.

First, it is particularly important to determine whether the mandible, on closure, is in
centric relation or in a "convenient" anterior position.
The practical implication is that a Class I problem can appear to be a Class III
malocclusion (pseudo-Class III malocclusion) when the mandible is forced anteriorly .
Even a true Class III malocclusion can appear much more serious if there is an anterior
path of closure of the mandible

Type Anterior position of mandible Centric relation and centric

occlusion Significance

Pseudo-Class III Present Not coincident Problem is less difficult than it

appears)
True Class III Present Not coincident Problem is less difficult than it
appears
True Class III Absent Coincident Problem is as difficult as it appears

The second principle is that the nature of the skeletal discrepancy must be defined
because treatment, to a large extent, is based on this differential diagnosis.
Class III malocclusions can be classified as
An underdeveloped maxilla ---Type A
An overdeveloped mandible---- Type B or
A combination of these two Types A and B.

Third, a malocclusion reflects the interplay of many conditions that may be impossible to
evaluate singularly. One important variable is the potential growth and development of a
patient with a Class III malocclusion. In this context, at least two factors may be
detrimental and aggravate Class III malocclusions with time. One is the differential
growth of the jaws, carrying the mandible more anteriorly relative to the maxilla. Also,
local conditions (such as low tongue posture) may adversely influence the growth pattern.
Since the amount and the timing of growth of the mandible cannot be assessed
accurately, we cannot consider a Class III malocclusion fully resolved until facial growth
has ended.
TREATMENT FOR TYPE A CLASS III

Characteristic of this type in which the maxilla appears retrognathic is a concave profile
which represents underdevelopment of the middle part of the face, rather than
prominence of the mandible. Treatment should be started early, as early as 4 years of age,
for two fundamental reasons. One is that extraoral traction which pulls the maxilla
anteriorly functions in the same direction as the direction of development. Second, unlike
posterior movement of the mandibular arch, anterior movement of the maxillary arch
appears to have a greater chance of remaining stable. With this kind of treatment, we can
expect to achieve
1. An orthopedic protraction of the maxilla with a strong force (500 to 1,000 Gm per
side). This change appears to be limited especially if treatment is started after 6
years of age,
2. An increase in the inclination of the maxillary incisors to obtain a sufficient
overjet, associated more or less with
3. Bodily movement of all the teeth in an anterior direction, advancing point A,
4. Both an improvement in function and a more esthetic profile.

One appliance for this type of treatment is the facial mask .

FACE MASK:

The use of protraction headgear in the treatment of Class III malocclusion was described
more than 100 years ago, with other descriptions appearing early in this century.
Early orthopedic intervention provides a non surgical alternative in the treatment of
Class III malocclusion with maxillary retrusion. Protraction headgear provides directed,
forward growth of the maxilla at an early age. An extra oral force of 300 gm or more per
side, when applied, can cause significant changes in the circum maxillary sutures and in
the maxillary tuberosity. Tension produced within the sutures was believed to cause an
increase in vascularity and a concomitant differentiation of the cellular tissues resulting in
increased osteoblastic activity. In an animal study with tantalum implants and
oxytetracycline dyes, heavy intermittent maxillary protraction was found to produce
forward displacement of the mid face, anterior relocation of the inferior border of the
orbit, and gross osseous alterations extending superiorly to the area of the fronto
maxillary suture. The study also found that post treatment skeletal rebound was minimal
and was observed only during the first month after discontinuation of mechanical forces.
Clinically, the maxilla can be advanced 2 to 4 mm over a 12 to 15-month period of
headgear treatment. The use of protraction headgear has been shown to be most effective
in the full deciduous or early transitional dentition, with less skeletal changes after 9
years of age. A recent longitudinal study suggested that orthopedic effects of protraction
headgear on dentofacial structure was possible in young girls as late as during the
acceleration phase of pubertal growth spurt.
DESIGN:
The orthopedic facial mask consists of three basic components. The facial mask, a
bonded maxillary splint and elastics. The facial mask is an extra oral device composed of
a fore head pad and a chin pad that are connected with a heavy steel support rod. To this
support rod is connected a cross bow to which are attached rubber bands to produce a
forward and downward elastic traction of the maxilla. The position of the pads and the
cross bow can be adjusted simply by loosening and tightening set screws within each part
of the appliance.
The major modification in the appliance is the addition of facial mask
hooks in the upper first deciduous molar. In patients in whom treatment is started before
the eruption of the upper first molars, the appliance is designed to incorporate the first
and second deciduous molars as well s deciduous canines.
The splint is activated once per day until the desired increase in
transverse width has been achieved. In patient in whom no increase in transverse
dimension is desired, the appliance still activated for 8-10 days to disrupt the maxillary
sutural system and to promote maxillary protraction (HASS 1965)
After the patient has been accustomed to wearing the maxillary splint,
the facial mask treatment is initiated. The current version of the petit facial mask is one
universal size and can be adjusted to fit the facial contours of most patients.

SEQUENCE OF ELASTICS:

At the time of delivery 3/8” 8 oz 2 weeks

After 2 weeks 1/2” 14 oz
Increased to a max of 5/16” 14 oz

Young patients (4-9) years should wear the mask on a full time basis except during
meals. Duration is 4-6 months. They can be retained with only night time wear or with a
maintenance plate, chin cup or FR III. In older patients, it is worn at all times except
during school.

SKELETAL EFFECTS OF MAXILLARY PROTRACTION sutures involved:

The maxilla articulates with nine other bones of the craniofacial complex: frontal, nasal,
lacrimal, ethmoid, palatine, vomer, zygoma, inferior nasal concha, opposite maxilla, and
occasionally sphenoid. Palatal expansion had been shown to produce a forward and
downward movement of the maxilla by affecting the intermaxillary and circummaxillary
sutures. The disruption of these sutures may help initiating cellular response in the
sutures, allowing a more positive reaction to protraction forces. In combination with fixed
maxillary expansion appliances, investigators found that the correction of the anterior
crossbite and the Class III molar relationship can be achieved in as little as 6 months of
active treatment.
Kambara found changes at the circummaxillary sutures and at the
maxillary tuberosity attributable to posteroanterior traction, including the opening of
sutures, stretching of sutural connective-tissue fibers, new bone deposition along the
stretched fibers, and apparent tissue homeostasis that maintained the sutural width. Nanda
and Hickory showed how the histologic modifications in the zygomatico maxillary suture
after maxillary protraction varied according to the orientation of the force system applied.
Biomechanical studies on dry human skulls have demonstrated further that the
application of an anteriorly directed force results in forward movement of the maxilla.
These investigations also showed that the direction of the force is critical in controlling
rotation of the upper jaw. A force generated parallel to the maxilla or above the palatal
plane produces counterclockwise rotation of the palatal plane.

BIOMECHANICS:

The centre of resistance of the maxilla is located at the distal contacts of the maxillary
first molars, one half the distance from the functional occlusal plane to the inferior border
of the orbit.( lee AJO 1997) Protraction of maxilla below the Centre of resistance
produces counter clock wise rotation of the maxilla. Also Hata et al (AJO 1987) found
using human skulls that protraction forces at the level of the maxillary arch produces
forward but counter clock wise rotation unless a heavy downward vector of force was
applied. A heavy force at 300 -450 downward to the occlusal plane sis accepted.10 of
counter clock wise rotation being acceptable .Force levels of 300-500 gms on either side
in both primary and mixed dentition is recommended by most authors.
Direction of force being downward, the point of application is 5 mm above
the palatal plane in the canine region. Hata et al suggested that an effective forward
displacement of the maxilla can be obtained with this point of application.

EFFECTS OF THE FACE MASK:

1. After maxillary protraction, the maxilla was displaced anteriorly, whereas the
mandible rotated posteriorly;
2. The maxillary incisors moved in the anterior direction, whereas the mandibular
incisors moved posteriorly;
3. The mandibular plane angle and anterior lower and total face heights increased;
4. There is no change in SN-palatal plane angle during growth period.
5. These changes were reflected in the profile, whereby the skeletal profile
convexity increased and soft tissue facial angle and facial convexity increased;
and the Class III concave profile became more balanced, with the upper lip area
becoming more marked.
6. Position of the posterior nasal spine remained stable
7. Over bite was improved by eruption of maxillary and mandibular molars.
8. Anchorage loss was observed during maxillary protraction with mesial movement
of the maxillary molars.
9. An average of 5.68 mm anterior movement of the upper incisors resulted in a
significant amount of upper lip protraction.
10. The ratio of upper lip protraction to upper incisor protraction relative to the
vertical reference line was 1:1.26.
11. A significant decrease in upper lip thickness to vermilion was caused by the fact
that during the treatment period, total anterior movement of the upper incisors
was approximately 1 mm more than that of the upper lip.
 12. A significant decrease in the upper lip sulcus depth can be evaluated as another
favorable effect of the appliance on the soft tissue profile.
13. The lower lip moved posteriorly to lie behind the Steiner S line,
14. After the correction of the crossbite in Class III cases, the lower lip most often
contacts both lower and upper incisors and would therefore be influenced not only
by the retraction of the lower incisors but by protraction of the upper incisors as
well.
15. Backward repositioning of the pogonion soft, and slight inhibition of anterior
migration of the lower lip was seen.
16. upward and forward rotation of the maxilla occurs when protraction force on
molars is applied parallel to the occlusal plane. This type of maxillary rotation can
be minimized when the force is applied in the canine area, 20° to 30° below the
occlusal plane.

One other aspect of Class III malocclusions is that a retrognathic maxilla is often
associated with a narrow maxillary arch which is in bilateral cross-bite. Expansion of the
maxillary arch can be done at the same time as protraction of the maxilla (which brings it
into a narrower portion of the mandible), or it can be done later. For this purpose, a rapid
maxillary expansion appliance is used.

RAPID MAXILLARY EXPANSION:

Indications for RME.

1. Patients who have lateral discrepancies that result in either unilateral or bilateral
posterior crossbites involving several teeth are candidates for RME. The
constriction may be skeletal (narrow maxillary base or wide mandible), dental, or
a combination of both skeletal and dental constriction.
2. Anteroposterior discrepancies. For example, patients with skeletal Class II,
Division 1 malocclusions with or without a posterior crossbite, patients with Class
III malocclusions, and patients with borderline skeletal and pseudo Class III
problems are candidates if they have maxillary constriction or posterior crossbite.
3. Cleft lip and palate patients with collapsed maxillae .
4. Procedure to gain arch length in patients who have moderate maxillary crowding.

Contraindications for RME.

1. Patients who cannot cooperate with the clinician are not candidates for RME.
2. Patients who have a single tooth in crossbite probably do not need RME.
3. Patients who have anterior open bites, steep mandibular planes, and convex
profiles are generally not well suited to RME.
4. Patients who have skeletal asymmetry of the maxilla or mandible,
5. Adults with severe anteroposterior and vertical skeletal discrepancies are not good
candidates for RME.
The following factors need to be considered during treatment planning to determine
whether to expand the dental arches conventionally or with RME:
 1. The magnitude of the discrepancy between the maxillary and mandibular first
molar and premolar widths; if the discrepancy is 4 mm or more, one should
consider RME,
2. The severity of the crossbite, that is, the number of teeth involved, and
3. The initial angulations of the molars and premolars— when the maxillary molars
are buccally inclined, conventional expansion will tip them further into the
buccal musculature; and if the mandibular molars are lingually inclined, the
buccal movement to upright them will increase the need to widen the upper arch.

The increase in mandibular plane angle with treatment may be due to incomplete
compensation of the short-term downward displacement of maxilla by the vertical growth
of the ramus. One year after protraction, the mandibular plane angle decreased, and this
value was significantly smaller than that of the untreated group of age 12. The increase in
the mandibular plane angle with treatment may be due to
1. The relapse of the treatment that induces vertical increase of anterior facial height
and clockwise rotation of the mandible, and
2. Chin cup effects after protraction.

MODIFIED PROTRACTION HEAD GEAR:

A modified protraction headgear design and the biomechanical considerations of its

clinical use are presented by NANDA (1980 AJO). The clinical results show that a
modified protraction headgear with a chin cup helps in the correction of moderately
severe Class III malocclusions by the anterior displacement of the maxilla and maxillary
dentition, and possibly restricting or changing the direction of the growth of the
mandible. This headgear can also be used to correct axial inclinations and or mesial
displacement of posterior teeth.

LONG TERM EFFECTS OF RPE/FACEMASK:

Mc NAMARA AND SARVER ET AL (AJO 2003)

In the cephalometric investigation, authors compared the long-term effects of an initial

phase of rapid maxillary expansion and facemask (RME/FM) therapy followed by
comprehensive edgewise therapy with the effects of growth in untreated, matched
controls. During the post treatment period, the treated and untreated Class III subjects
generally grew similarly, although the skeletal relationship of the maxilla to the
mandible remained unchanged in the RME/FM group, whereas the controls had an
increased skeletal discrepancy of 3.0 mm. Over the long term, there was a slightly greater
increase in midfacial length (1.6 mm) in the treatment group than in the controls.
Similarly, the distance from Point A to nasion perpendicular decreased by 1.2 mm in the
treated group. The overall increase in mandibular length was 2.4 mm less in the
RME/FM group than in the controls, and mandibular projection relative to nasion
perpendicular was 3.0 mm less in the treated group. The change in the Wits appraisal was
substantial between groups (6.1 mm), with an improvement in inter maxillary
relationship in the treated group (3.4 mm. No clinically significant differences were
observed between the groups in the vertical dimension. Overjet increased significantly in
the treated group relative to the controls (4.4 mm), whereas the molar relationship
decreased significantly (–3.9 mm During the post treatment period that includes the
pubertal growth spurt, craniofacial growth in RME/FM patients is similar to that of
untreated Class III controls. Aggressive over-correction of the Class III skeletal
malocclusion, even toward a Class II occlusal relationship, appears to be advisable, with
the establishment of positive overbite and overjet relationships essential to the long-term
stability of the treatment outcome.

THE FUNCTIONAL REGULATOR (FR-3) OF FRÄNKEL

A method of functional jaw orthopedics that has gained increased popularity in the
United States is predicated on the- system of functional regulator appliances developed
by Professor Rolf Fränkel of the German Democratic Republic.
INDICATION:
This appliance has been used during the deciduous, mixed, and early permanent
dentition stages to correct Class III malocclusion characterized by maxillary skeletal
retrusion, and not mandibular prognathism.
According to Fränkel, the vestibular shields and upper labial pads function to counteract
the forces of the surrounding muscles that restrict forward maxillary skeletal
development and retrude maxillary tooth position. Fränkel has also stated that the
vestibular shields stand away from the alveolar process of the maxilla but fit closely in
the mandible, thus stimulating maxillary alveolar development and restricting mandibular
alveolar development.
Fränkel reported a study of 74 severe Class III cases treated with the FR-3, comparing
these cases to 58 Class II cases treated with the FR-1 appliance. He noted greater forward
movement of maxillary landmarks in the Class III cases than in the Class II cases. He
also stated that the changes in maxillary position in the Class II cases were minimal in
comparison to what would normally occur during growth. He concluded from this study
that the forward development of the maxilla is stimulated by the FR-3 appliance.
Another use of the FR-3 has been suggested by Petit in the treatment of severe Class III
cases. Petit advocates the use of heavy orthopedic forces generated by the facial mask to
achieve the initial correction of the malocclusion. Further, he suggests that an FR-3 may
be used to retrain the maxillary anteroposterior correction and to retrain the associated
musculature.
Eirew has stated that the FR-3 is an excellent retraining device and aid to muscular
reeducation following surgical correction of mesiocclusion.

Construction bite
As with the FR-2 appliance, a proper construction bite is essential to appliance
fabrication. A horseshoe wafer of medium hard wax is used to orient the upper and lower
dental arches in all three planes of space (horizontal, transverse, and vertical). Any
arbitrary adjustments in work-model orientation during appliance fabrication can lead to
an appliance that does not fit properly.
The bite registration is taken with the patient's mandible in the most comfortably retruded
position. It is necessary to allow 1 to 2 mm of interocclusal space in the molar region for
the construction of the lower and, when necessary, upper occlusal rests. A wide open-bite
registration should be avoided. In cases with an anterior open bite, only 1 mm of vertical
bite-opening in the posterior region is necessary.

A second method involves the use of removable appliances which are placed in the
deciduous dentition stage of development or in the mixed-dentition stage when certain
teeth have exfoliated or are carious. If retention of the removable appliance is adequate,
we can apply up to 500 Gm. per side.
The orthodontic effect, moving the maxillary teeth forward, can be achieved at any time.
However, there appear to be ''more optimum'' situations for this procedure. One is when
there is insufficient room for the canines. In this instance, maxillary incisors can be
moved forward to make space. If orthopedic protraction of the maxilla is also indicated, it
is generally done immediately after space has been gained for the canines by moving the
incisors anteriorly. In addition, the maxillary teeth are protracted when the potential for
an orthopedic effect is diminished (age 9 to 10+, that is, at the end of the mixed-dentition
stage of development or later) and when the basal discrepancy is not severe. The
movement of the maxillary teeth can be associated with reverse torque to stimulate the
most anterior part of the maxilla to move in an anterior direction (point A). Since the
force requirements for moving the teeth are modest, the buccal and palatal areas of the
teeth are not united and extraoral traction, pulling in an anterior direction, can be attached
to the labial arch either on loops mesial to the canines or distal to the first molars.

Another type of appliance is a reverse headgear. This functions to produce anterior

movement to the maxilla and to redirect the anterior movement of the mandible. This
appliance can be used when strong forces are not necessary. Under these conditions,
however, the orthopedic effect may be limited.

TREATMENT FOR TYPE B CLASS III MALOCCLUSION

Characteristic of this type of malocclusion is the overdevelopment of the mandible,

especially in relation to the maxilla. The profile is flat or concave, reflecting the hyper
development of the lower third of the face rather than the underdevelopment of the
middle third of the face. The treatment of choice would be to inhibit or redirect the
growth of the mandible. For this purpose, a few appliances are available.

CHIN CUP :
Orthopedic force is used to protract the maxilla, while the chin cup or mental anchorage
serves to redirect mandibular growth

REVIEW OF LITERATURE:
Appliances resembling chin cups have been in use since the early 1800's. According to
Graber, the early attempts with the chin cup were not successful because of incomplete
knowledge of mandibular and facial growth, its use on non growing patients, and an
inadequate understanding of the forces generated by the chin cup.
Armstrong applied 500 Gm. of force via chin cups on 100 adolescent patients with
mandibular prognathism. He reported that half of his patients showed improvement in the
Class III profile, whereas none of the control, nontreated patients showed any favorable
change.
Thilander treated sixty patients with chin cups for 1 to 6 years. A significant percentage
of patients did not improve. The patients who showed improvement were comparatively
young and showed favorable dental changes. The force generated by the chin cup in his
study was only 150 to 200 Gm.
Graber, Chung, and Aoba reported results in patients treated with chin cups for 12 to 14
hours each day with a force of 1.5 to 2 pounds on each side. They showed that
mandibular growth could be redirected with a chin cup. They asserted that continuous use
of the appliance for a long period or through active growth was necessary to achieve
stable results.
Graber treated 35 Class III malocclusions in children between the ages of 5 and 8 years
with chin cup therapy for 3 years. He found that the therapy was particularly effective in
patients with increased vertical growth of the face.
Chin cup therapy primarily works on the hypothesis that a force directed through the
condyles will inhibit as well as redirect the condylar growth. However, this therapy alone
may not be indicated for a fair percentage of patients in skeletal Class III who show a
small midfacial bone or a retropositioned maxilla with relatively normal mandibular
dimensions. Jacobson and associates studied 149 Class III patients and noted that in
approximately one fourth of the sample the problem was due to maxillary deficiency.
Several clinical studies in the past have noted that treatment of patients in skeletal Class
III should include protraction of the maxilla with or without chin cups. Oppenheim
suggested a technique for moving the maxilla forward. He noted that restriction of growth
or distal movement of the mandible was impossible.
Kettle and Burhapp reported an appliance for cleft lip and palate which successfully
inhibited forward growth of the mandible and simultaneously caused anterior movement
of the maxilla.

Chin cup therapy may improve the following variables of dental and skeletal Class III
morphology:
1. retrusive maxilla,
2. moderate to severe protrusive mandible,
3. anterior crossbite, and
4. concave profile.

Both animal and clinical studies of chincap treatment have reported and confirmed
numerous statistically significant changes in the craniofacial complex as a result of
treatment:
1. A decrease in the mandibular plane angle.
2. A decrease in the gonial angle.
3. A decrease in the SNB angle.
4. A redirection in the downward vertical growth of the midface.
However, as Mitani and Fukazawa and other investigators have reported, when the Class
III malocclusion is characterized by maxillary retrusion, chincap force may have
inconsistent results and may not be the treatment of choice. In these cases, the use of a
protracting appliance, either alone or in conjunction with a chincap, may be the treatment
of choice.
In dealing with the correction of the Class III malocclusion with an anterior crossbite,
there are two approaches - (1) correction by adjustment of the skeletal bones, and (2)
correction by adjusting the dentoalveolar bone. The two approaches are radically
different and diametrically opposite in basic principle. One stimulates alveolar bone and
the other inhibits alveolar bone.

Apparently, when we try to prevent forward growth of the mandible by applying

posterior and superior force with a chin cap, it has an adverse effect on the gonion angle -
causing the angle to increase instead of decrease. Apparently, this posterior and upward
force from the chin cap reverses the natural tendency of the gonion angle to reduce as it
grows. This involves basic biologic phenomena, about which we have no knowledge at
the present time.
However, its application is limited to an extent because part of the force can be dispersed
as it pushes against the soft tissue and also because there is no control of tooth position,
which is possible with other types of extraoral traction.

If we are trying to depict changes of the maxilla, it would seem desirable to include the
entire maxilla. In the illustrations shown, only the anterior superior approximately one-
half of the maxilla (the "northeast" one-half) is included in the maxillary triangle, while
the "southwest" approximately one-half of the maxilla, including the dentoalveolar
portion, is not included in the maxillary triangle.

The growth of the non-included portion of the maxilla establishes the vertical dimension
of the maxilla, and along with that of the mandible establishes the vertical dimension of
the face. The mandibular triangle includes only the basal portion of the mandible and
dentoalveolar processes. " If the "relative positions" of the maxilla and the mandible are
not rigidly specified, then vertical growth of the upper and lower dentoalveolar processes
cannot be accounted for. As pointed out above, there are two gonion angle phenomena,
(1) reduction due to growth and (2) reduction due to Class III treatment. Also there is a
third phenomenon of mandibular change. This involves the bending of the neck of the
condyle. This backward bending of the condyle is in response to Class II treatment with
removable appliances.

As the neck of the condyle reverts back toward its former position post treatment, as it
usually does (DeVincenzo 1991), one of four post treatment reactions must occur; (1) the
molar relation must revert back toward Class II occlusion, (2) the lower molars must
move forward on the mandible, (3) there must be a change in the temporal mandibular
joint, or (4) there must be a dual bite.

The authors of the Class III study speak of”shrinkage" of the condylion-pogonion
distance, but this is a misnomer. The distance does not become smaller, it only fails to
increase in proportion to the growth of the condyle, because of the reduction of the
gonion angle.
EXTRA ORAL TRACTION:

By means of extraoral traction we hope to obtain

a) A repositioning of the mandible posteriorly so that the condyle enters the glenoid fossa
if there is an anterior path of closure of the mandible;
b) Orthodontic movement, inclining the teeth posteriorly;
c) Control of the anterior bite depth;
d) Better control of the vertical dimension; and
e) Influence over the potential growth and development of the mandible.

There are two types of extra oral traction that can be applied to the lower arch.
1. Kloehn type of face-bow that is placed against the first molars.
2. The other consists of facial wires placed against the incisor segment
by means of ''J" hooks or loops on the arch wire

Practically, the Kloehn type appliance has limited applicability in open bite cases
because tipping can lead to clockwise rotation of the mandible and it cannot control the
position of the incisor segment. On the other hand with the use of facial wires there are a
number of beneficial effects that can be obtained. One is that mandibular incisors can
readily be retracted without straining anchorage since Class I forces are not necessary for
incisor retraction. Second is the control of anterior bite depth . For example, in open-bite
problems, a high-pull headgear can be used.
A straight-pull headgear can be applied when bite depth is shallow , whereas in the
presence of a deep bite a low-pull gear is suggested . In addition, it is possible to place
the force directly against the first molars by incorporating molar stops into the wire. In
this manner, the molars can be held in situ, as when the deciduous second molar
exfoliates and the second premolar is erupting, or the molars can be moved distally. Also,
with facial wires, mandibular clockwise rotation with possible increase in vertical
dimension can be avoided in open-bite cases. Further, there is the possible restraint of
forward growth

TREATMENT OF TYPE A AND TYPE B

This generally requires a combination type of therapy to produce anterior movement of
the maxilla and posterior movement of the mandible. This is chosen when the
malocclusion reflects underdevelopment of the maxilla associated with hyper
development of the mandible. It can also be done when, during treatment, to accept a
compromise result between relationships of the mandible and maxilla.
Maxillary protraction and mandibular retraction can be achieved by using, in successive
treatment periods, two types of extraoral traction. For example, initially, a facial mask
may be used to gain space for the maxillary teeth and to protract the maxillary arch. In a
subsequent treatment period, an extraoral appliance can be used to move the mandibular
arch distally or, at least, to control the incisor region and possibly influence mandibular
growth and development.

CLASS III ACTIVATOR: Somchai Satravaha, (AJO 1999)

The activator was introduced by Andresen and has been long served for correction of
skeletal Class II malocclusions. Rakosi suggested modification of the activator for use in
Class III treatment. The appliance consists of wire and acrylic parts. The wire
components are
1. 4 stop-loops located mesial to all first molars to prevent mesial tipping of the
molars and to stabilize the appliance,
2. Lower labial bow to stabilize the appliance,
3. Upper labial pads to remove the force of the upper lip and create periosteal pull to
induce bone formation, and
4. Tongue crib to correct anterior tongue thrusting habit.

The goal of using a Class III activator was to achieve posterior positioning of the
mandible or maxillary protraction. The construction bite is taken by retruding the lower
jaw. The upper labial pad of the activator is intended to protract the maxilla

Treatment Changes
1. Effect on a backward positioning of the mandible.
2. There were significant increases of the ANB angle and the Wits values.
3. The SNB and SNPog became smaller resulting in increasing facial convexity
(NAPog).
4. The articular angle was significantly enlarged, thus augmenting the sum of the
saddle, articular, and gonial angles.
5. The facial axis opened significantly.
6. There were significant differences in the upper face height (N-ANS), mandibular
length (Co-Gn), and ramus length (Ar-Go).
7. Dentoalveolar adaptations included labial tipping of the upper incisors as well as
lingual tipping of lower incisors.
Post treatment Changes
1. ANB angle as well as the Wits value remained quite stable.
2. The SNA, SNB, SNPog, and NAPog became larger.
3. The articular angle was increased
4. the gonial angle exhibited a compensatory decline resulting in decreasing of the
sum angle
Long-term Results
1. The Class III activator produced a more posterior position of the mandible and
changed direction of the mandibular growth.
2. Both alterations remained through the post activator period.
3. The maxilla and the mandible grew with an increase in maxillomandibular
differential; the maxilla remained in a more forward position
4. There was significant difference in the degree of change of angle OP/Go-Gn
during the treatment but disappeared in the post activator period due to
compensatory reduction of the gonial angle.

TWO PIECE CORRECTOR (JCO 1997)

The Two-Piece Corrector was designed by Gerald.R.Eganhouse to apply biological
forces that will counteract any Class III developmental vectors, whether skeletal or
dentoalveolar, and correct or minimize their effects on the patient . It is a removable
acrylic appliance that simultaneously applies an anterior force to the maxilla and an equal
posterior force to the mandible. The flat, sliding surfaces of the two pieces create almost
no friction as the dentition is disoccluded during movement, but provide both lateral and
anteroposterior stability

Appliance construction:
A construction bite of 4-6 mm thick is taken using an “Exacto Bite” registration jig. This
gives an accurate centric relation, since the mandibular incisors can be positioned
precisely. In the laboratory, a slide is created on the articulator, with the male(guide)
portion in the maxillary acrylic plate and the female (groove) potion in the mandibular
plate. The male portion is extended about 15 mm distal to allow for anteroposterior
sliding and to ensure lateral stability as correction progresses. The anterior portion of the
two pieces will be flush when the appliance is inserted, but the maxillary piece will
gradually slide forward on the mandibular piece
Elastics provide the force between two parts of the appliance – one hook on each side of
the maxillary plate on the disto buccal aspect of the maxillary first molar, two located in
the maxillary first bicuspid – canine area, and the fourth placed between the mandibular
canine and lateral incisor.
The shorter elastics (1/8” 6oz) are attached from the mandibular
hook to the most anterior hook on the maxilla. As treatment progresses, it is moved to the
posterior hook. The longer elastic on each side stretched from the mandibular hook to the
molar hook can be ¼”, or 3/16” depending on the comfort.

DURATION:
12 hours a day in conjugation with face mask. 11 months of treatment time and 18 -24
months of retention

INDICATION:
Mild skeletal class III where future surgery would not be indicated. And used during
preadolescent and adolescent growth periods

CLASS III BIONATOR (GARATINNI ET AL AJO 1998)

BALTERS BIONATOR III can be used in patients with skeletal Class III malocclusion.
The use of this appliance causes some skeletal changes through neuromuscular
modifications.
CRITERIA:
1. Angle Class III molar relationship;
2. Edge-to edge incisor position or anterior cross bite;
3. Concave profile;
4. Head hyperextension posture;
5. Static and dynamic Class III neuromuscular attitude;
6. Hypertonic upper lip;
 7. Low and forward tongue rest position.
CONSTRUCTION BITE:
The construction bite was taken by gently repositioning the mandible distally in centric
relation technique. The mandible is positioned distally, applying as little force as possible
in order to put the condyle in centric relation, avoiding compression in the retrodiscal
pad. The vertical thickness of the bite, corresponding to the interocclusal acrylic between
upper and lower first molar should not exceed 3 to 4 mm, Patients had to wear this
appliance for at least 22 hours a day.

RESULTS:

1. Mean increase in the upper jaw length

2. Advancement of point A
3. Palatal and mandibular plane angles widened
4. Increase of the anterior facial height
5. Reduced Anteroposterior mandibular growth
Therefore, the Bionator III is helpful in Class III malocclusion treatment in growing
patients with midfacial deficiency, hypodivergent growth pattern, and reduced facial
height.

TREATMENT IN PERMANENT DENTITION:

THE FOUR-STAGE TREATMENT PLANNING

PROCESS FOR CLASS III CASES
Stage 1 – setting a PIP for the upper incisors
The first stage in Class III treatment planning concerns upper incisor position. It is
necessary to determine an ideal position and then decide whether it can be achieved. If
not, a modified position may be appropriate, which is less than ideal, but acceptable. In
this way a ‘planned incisor position’, or PIP, is determined.
Stage 2 – the lower incisors
The second stage of treatment planning involves positioning of the lower incisors. This
is frequently a key concern in Class III cases with mandibular excess.
Stage 3 – the remaining upper teeth
It is beneficial to evaluate the remaining upper teeth at stage 3. If upper premolar
extractions are necessary (usually second premolars) then it is normally logical to extract
lower first premolar, in a Class III case. However, if the upper arch can be treated without
extractions, then a range of lower arch options needs to be considered.
The third stage therefore involves deciding how to position the rest of the upper teeth to
fit the PIP for the upper incisors. It normally assists Class III treatment mechanics if
upper arch extractions can be avoided. The dental VTO will confirm the required
movement of molars and canines.
Stage 4 – the remaining lower teeth
Lower premolar extractions assist in the retraction of lower incisors, and are helpful to
Class III treatment mechanics in many cases. The dental VTO can be used to reach a
correct decision. In some Class III marginal extractions cases, second molars may be
considered
UPPER INCISOR MOVEMENT IN CLASS III TREATMENT
In mild Class III cases, with a normal maxilla but mandibular excess, the pre-treatment
upper incisor position may be close to the PIP. In this situation, the case may require
relatively little movement of the upper incisors. However, in many Class III cases, there
will be a requirement to move the upper incisors mesially. In some maxillary deficiency
Class III cases, it can be a challenge to achieve the required mesial movement without
excessive proclination. If a Class III case requires mesial movement of upper incisors, it
can be achieved in two ways:
1. By proclination and mesial movement of upper incisors within the available bone .
Many Class III cases require mesial movement of upper incisors, to keep pace with the
growing mandible. When upper incisors are proclined forwards, each 2.5° of proclination
creates approximately 1mm of space per side, or 2mm in total. For this reason upper
premolar extractions are not advisable in many Class III cases. If upper premolars are
extracted it can be difficult or impossible to procline upper incisors.
2. By mesial movement of the maxillary bone as a result of normal growth or orthodontic
procedures.

Mesial movement of upper incisors within the bone

During tooth leveling with the opening wires, there is a tendency for upper incisors to
move mesially due to bracket tip, In Class III cases, this is normally beneficial, and
moves the upper incisors towards PIP. Likewise, at the rectangular HANT and the
rectangular steel wire stages, the A/P expansion and torque effects tend to produce
beneficial changes for most Class III cases. This can be further augmented by the use of
Class III elastics. Because of these spontaneous tooth movements during tooth leveling
and aligning, the early management of the upper arch in mild Class III cases is normally
straightforward.
Limits to mesial movement of upper incisors
1. Excessive proclination. It is necessary to avoid excessive proclination of the upper
incisors, otherwise unesthetic appearance and inadequate function will result. As a
general rule, proclination of the upper incisors beyond 120° to the maxillary plane should
be avoided, although there is individual variation . In some cases, less proclination than
120° may be appropriate. Gingival recession and long clinical crowns can result from
excessive proclination.
2. Failure to fully achieve a positive overjet. This can be due to the forward position of
the lower incisors, or other reasons, and the resulting bite can be difficult to manage
If this is allowed to persist, then there is a risk of enamel damage and/or root resorption.
Accordingly, it is unwise to attempt to correct a Class III incisor relationship by
orthodontic procedures alone, unless it is clear from the outset that full correction can be
achieved, and a near normal overjet obtained.

Mesial movement of maxillary bone due to growth

Maxillary growth cannot be relied on as a useful factor in correction of Class III
malocclusions. Generally in this type of case, maxillary growth will not be favorable or
helpful in reaching the PIP for the upper incisor.

Mesial movement of maxillary bone due to orthodontic treatment

In growing individuals who have maxillary deficiency, consideration can be given to
treatment procedures which will encourage orthopedic change within the maxillary bone
These can include rapid maxillary expansion, and the use of reverse headgear.

LOWER INCISOR MOVEMENT IN CLASS III CASES

Distal movement of the lower incisors can be achieved by distal movement of the teeth
within the mandibular bone, or by distal movement of the mandible itself, when there is a
displacement. Unfavorable mesial movement of the lower incisors can occur because of
mandibular growth
Distal movement and retraction of the lower incisors within the mandibular bone
In most non-surgical Class III treatments, it is helpful to retract and retrocline the lower
incisors . This can compensate for mild mandibular prognathism or mild maxillary
retrognathism, and hence mask the underlying skeletal discrepancy. The anatomy of the
mandibular bone in the lower incisor region places limits on what should be attempted.
Retraction and retroclination beyond a figure of approximately 80° to the mandibular
plane is undesirable, because of the risk of dehiscence and lack of bone support for the
over-retracted incisors. Also, dental esthetics and function will be adversely affected
The required retraction and retroclination of the lower incisors is normally achieved with
the assistance of Class III elastics, and treatment mechanics are easier in cases where
lower teeth have been extracted. Lower first premolar extractions are most favorable in
assisting lower incisor distal movement, but loss of lower second molars can also be
considered .If the lower arch is managed on a non-extraction basis, Class III mechanics
can be used to produce some retraction and retroclination of the lower incisors. This can
produce distal tipping of the lower premolars and molars, which in turn reduces the
available space for the lower third molars. Early removal of lower third molars can be
considered in some cases. A non-extraction approach to Class III treatment may not
achieve sufficient lower incisor movement for the needs of the case. Correction of the
malocclusion may be possible, but not over-correction. Thus, there is no provision in the
result for any late growth changes, which occur relatively frequently in Class III cases,
especially among male patients.

Distal movement of mandibular bone – distal repositioning

In many Class III cases, there is a mesial displacement of the mandible at the start of
treatment. As treatment progresses, the mandible repositions distally, to a position with
the condyles centered in the fossae. This favorable change can be predicted at the
treatment planning stage, and is a useful adjunct to distal movement of the lower incisors
within the facial complex.
Mesial movement of mandibular bone – Class III growth
This is a major factor in the treatment and subsequent retention of Class III patients,
especially males. If a decision is made to treat the malocclusion with orthodontics alone,
every patient should be informed of the unpredictable nature of Class III growth, and of
the implications of any unfavorable growth which may occur in the retention period.