Differential diagnosis and treatment planning of the surgical orthodontic class III malocclusion

The decision to reposition the mandible posteriorly or the maxilla anteriorly in the treatment of Class III malocclusions depends upon multiple clinical, cephalometric, and biomedical considerations. In each case the decision must be made on teh basis of frontal and profile treatment objectives, occlusion, and the needs of the patient. In many instances, depending upon the magnitude of the disharmony, the treatment plan will be based upon the clinical judgment and experience of the surgeon and orthodontist. Surgery for the Class III patient is equally predictable and stable, whether the maxilla or the mandible is moved. This article discusses the diagnostic criteria by which one might evaluate and plan treatment for a patient with a Class III malocclusion and facial disharmony.