Is the benefit of early orthodontic treatment worth the burden?
In summary, early interception of Class III malocclusion is definitely warranted for many patients. A careful analysis of the patient's problem, and an analysis of the patient's airway is essential if one is to make the correct decision as to the amenability of early treatment of the patient's Class III malocclusion. The Class I patient, in most instances, especially if the crowding is severe, can be favorably impacted with guidance of occlusion. This procedure shortens treatment time and lessens the burden for both the patient and the family. Space preservation is also a viable procedure if the Class I patient has minor mandibular anterior crowding. Early Class II intervention can be attempted if all parties concerned know the literature and expectations. Of the three types of malocclusions, the Class II malocclusion presents with the most problems, and early Class II treatment must be viewed pessimistically.
DeWood
Cheryl
C
University of Tennessee, Graduate Orthodontic Program, USA.
Grimes
Marlin
M
Vaden
James L
JL
D000293:Adolescent; D002508:Cephalometry; D002648:Child; D003818:Dentition, Mixed; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008310:Malocclusion / Q000628:therapy*; D008311:Malocclusion, Angle Class I / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000628:therapy; D008312:Malocclusion, Angle Class II / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000628:therapy; D008313:Malocclusion, Angle Class III / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000628:therapy; D009971:Orthodontics, Corrective / Q000379:methods*; D010347:Patient Care Planning; D012690:Serial Extraction