Change in mandibular growth direction by means of a Herbst appliance? A case report.

The orthodontic treatment of a skeletal Class II, Division 1 malocclusion related to the general growth rate of the patient is described. The female patient was observed from the late juvenile period of growth to the termination of growth. The patient had a vertical facial growth pattern during the initial treatment and observation period (2.5 years). During treatment with the Herbst appliance and the activator, the mandible grew forward. During treatment with the fixed appliance and the period of retention, the vertical growth pattern of the mandible returned.