Biomechanical considerations for total distalization of the mandibular dentition in the treatment of Class III malocclusion

Class III malocclusions with mild to moderate skeletal discrepancies can be camouflaged by orthodontic tooth movement. Conventional methods using Class III elastics can correct Class III into Class I molar relationships. These mechanics show side-effects such as labioversion and intrusion of the maxillary incisors, extrusion of the maxillary molars, linguoversion and extrusion of the mandibular incisors, and intrusion of the mandibular molars along with flattening of the occlusal plane. Conventional mechanics can improve occlusal relationships and some profile esthetics but may produce detrimental smile esthetics by reducing the amount of maxillary incisor exposure.

Source: Seminars in Orthodontics - July 4, 2020 Category: Dentistry Authors: Jae Hyun Park, Sungsu Heo, Kiyoshi Tai, Yukio Kojima, Yoon-Ah Kook, Jong-Moon Chae Source Type: research