Case report demonstrates effective management of skeletal class III malocclusion in a 21-year-old male, indicating the role of orthognathic surgery and presurgical orthodontics.
Skeletal Class III malocclusion is one of the most challenging craniofacial deformities to diagnose and manage, often involving a combination of skeletal, dental, and soft tissue discrepancies. A 21-year-old male presented with a concave profile, orthognathic maxilla, prognathic mandible, reverse overjet of 6 mm, posterior crossbite, and compromised masticatory efficiency. Cephalometric analyses revealed increased mandibular projection, proclined incisors, and soft tissue imbalances including a reduced nasolabial angle and protruded lower lip. Treated in three phases: presurgical orthodontic decompensation with bilateral sagittal split osteotomy (BSSO) for mandibular setback, and postsurgical orthodontics for occlusal finishing. Functionally, Class I molar and canine relationships is established with ideal overjet/overbite, and coordinated midlines were achieved. Esthetically, facial balance was markedly improved, and stability was maintained with retention. This case underscores the importance of precise interdisciplinary planning, presurgical orthodontic preparation, and accurate surgical execution in managing severe skeletal Class III malocclusion in adults.
No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.
Konda et al. (2025) studied this question.
Synapse has enriched 5 closely related papers on similar clinical questions. Consider them for comparative context: