Long-term effects of protraction facemask combined with fixed appliance therapy in severe skeletal Class III adolescent: A case report with 5-year follow-up.

INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE

The decision between orthodontic camouflage therapy and orthodontic-orthognathic surgical treatment for developing skeletal Class III malocclusion presents a significant challenge for orthodontists.

CASE PRESENTATION

This case report describes the camouflage treatment of a severe skeletal Class III adolescent at the post-pubertal stage.

CLINICAL DISCUSSION

Protraction facemask combined with a bonded acrylic splint expander was initially used to correct the developing skeletal Class III malocclusion. Then the patient received fixed appliance therapy. The duration of active treatment was 14 months. Anterior crossbite was corrected, along with stable occlusion and harmonious facial condition. The results remain stable at the 5-year follow-up period.

CONCLUSION

Treatment with protraction facemask followed by fixed appliance therapy was possibly effective in a long-term observation, even in skeletal Class III adolescent at the post-pubertal stage.