[Proposal for a classification of Class II Division 1: contribution of Delaire's analysis]

Class II division 1 dental malocclusions are present in various forms depending on the site, direction and degree of discrepancy between the arches. The ability to recognize the origin of the malocclusion is essential to decide how, and when it is necessary to treat. In this study, the Delaire's analysis was performed for 111 individuals with a Class II division I malocclusion; a classification of these cases is proposed, according to the presence or the absence of a skeletal discrepancy. In 87% of the cases, a Class II division 1 dental malocclusion was associated with a Class II skeletal discrepancy (50% maxillary prognathism, 23.5% normal maxillary relationship and 13.5% maxillary retrognathism). The lines of the cranial base, the shape and size of the mandible varied considerably. In only 6% of cases, the dental malocclusion was associated with a skeletal Class I relationship, and in 7% of cases with a Class III relationship: it was often related to retruded mandibular teeth. It was shown that Class II division 1 dental malocclusions may result from differing causes: therefore, the identification of their etiology seems essential to provide the best possible treatment, at the right period in time.