An unexpected growth pattern: considerations in management

A case study spanning 16 years is presented. Routine treatment with serial extraction and an edgewise appliance for a Class I crowded occlusion began when the patient was 8 years old. By the time the patient was 17, his dentition had evolved, because of unanticipated growth, into a Class III malocclusion with complete-arch crossbite. The question of whether it is most appropriate to treat this patient in one or two surgical procedures is discussed, and some controversial aspects and concerns are presented.