Class III Malocclusion in Growing Patients: Facemask vs. Functional Appliance: Experimental Study

Area of Science:

• Orthodontics
• Craniofacial Development
• Pediatric Dentistry

Background:

• Class III malocclusion presents challenges in growing patients.
• Effective early intervention strategies are crucial for optimal outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the skeletal effects of postero-anterior facemask (PAF) therapy versus functional appliance (FA) therapy.
• To evaluate treatment outcomes in growing patients with Class III malocclusion.

Main Methods:

• A comparative study involving 85 growing patients with Class III malocclusion.
• Patients were treated with either PAF (n=50) or FA (n=35).
• Pre- and post-treatment cephalometric records were analyzed for sagittal and vertical changes.

Main Results:

• PAF therapy demonstrated significantly greater improvements in ANB angle and Wits appraisal compared to FA.
• PAF therapy showed superior vertical control with lower facial height reduction.
• FA therapy resulted in modest skeletal effects, primarily influencing mandibular position.

Conclusions:

• Postero-anterior facemask therapy is more effective than functional appliances for correcting sagittal and vertical skeletal discrepancies in growing Class III patients.
• Early intervention with PAF is indicated when maxillary protraction and vertical control are primary treatment goals.