Orthosurgical approach of a skeletal class III malocclusion with mandibular laterognathia: a case report

Skeletal class III malocclusion is characterized by an evident disharmony and discrepancy between the maxilla and mandible, affecting facial appearance and masticatory function. Usually, the association of transversal and vertical anomalies along with the anteroposterior problem makes the orthodontist's job perceived as a challenge. The ortho-surgical approach can be considered as an efficient alternative for the treatment of skeletal class III malocclusion, and it requires an interdisciplinary relationship between the orthodontist and a maxillofacial surgeon. This case report presents a 25-year-old female patient who consulted with a chief complaint of unsatisfactory facial esthetics. The clinical examination revealed a skeletal class III mainly due to maxilla hypoplasia accompanied with mandibular laterognathism, causing a unilateral posterior crossbite. The patient was treated with the ortho-surgical approach. The treatment objectives were achieved, providing a stable class I occlusion with an acceptable overjet and overbite, coordinated midlines, and a satisfactory facial profile with an excellent esthetic balance between the hard and soft tissue.