Contemporary Class II orthodontic and orthopaedic treatment: a review

The literature regarding the dental and facial soft tissue effects of various forms of contemporary Class II orthodontic and orthopaedic treatment is reviewed. Treatment outlined includes the use of headgear and functional appliances to attempt to modify the facial growth process and the extractions of premolar teeth as part of overall fixed appliance treatment. The conclusions of numerous articles highlight the fact that many approaches to treatment can be successful in correcting Class II malocclusions. Findings reported in recent literature also now show that the extractions of premolar teeth, for instance, as part of Class II treatment, do not necessarily lead to direct soft tissue effects. If lip profile changes do occur, it seems that they are far more likely to be positive aesthetically, than negative.