Orthodontic Approaches for Class III Malocclusion Treatment
At Burke & Redford Orthodontists, Dr. Ryan Redford and Dr. Michael Burke have been treating children, teenagers, and adults with orthodontic issues for over 30 years in the Inland Empire, serving communities in and between Temecula and Lake Elsinore, California.
One of the most complex orthodontic challenges they address is Class III malocclusion, commonly known as an underbite. This condition occurs when the lower teeth extend forward beyond the upper teeth, leading to a range of oral health, functional, and cosmetic issues.
Class III malocclusions are more than just a cosmetic concern; they can affect a patient’s ability to chew, speak, and maintain the structural integrity of the teeth. Left untreated, these issues can worsen over time, causing long-term damage to the teeth and self-esteem.
Fortunately, with advanced orthodontic techniques such as self-ligating ceramic braces, metal braces, Damon braces, and specialized appliances, Class III malocclusion can be effectively treated.
Understanding Class III Malocclusion
Class III malocclusion refers to a misalignment of the jaws and/or teeth, where the lower jaw/teeth extend forward past the upper jaw/teeth, creating an underbite.
This condition is most often caused by genetic factors. Some patients may have a naturally larger lower jaw (mandibular prognathism), while others may have an underdeveloped upper jaw (maxillary retrognathism), which can lead to a jaw and/or bite mismatch.
The severity of Class III malocclusion varies from patient to patient. Some may experience mild misalignment, while others may have more pronounced discrepancies between the jaws. Understanding the different types of Class III malocclusion helps orthodontists determine the best treatment approach for each individual case.
Types of Class III Malocclusions
Mild Class III Malocclusion
In mild cases, the misalignment between the upper and lower jaws is minimal, and the primary issue may involve the teeth rather than the underlying jaw structure. These patients may not have a significant skeletal discrepancy, making it easier to treat through straightforward orthodontic means.
Orthodontic Treatment: Mild Class III malocclusions can often be corrected using self-ligating ceramic braces, metal braces, Damon braces, or clear aligners. These orthodontic systems help realign the teeth and improve the bite.
Ceramic braces and clear aligners offer esthetic benefits as they blend in with the natural color of the teeth, while metal braces provide durability and strength. Damon braces are a well know brand of self-ligating braces.
Moderate Class III Malocclusion
Moderate Class III malocclusions involve a more noticeable underbite and may include some skeletal discrepancy between the upper and lower jaws. In these cases, orthodontic treatment is essential to address both the alignment of the teeth and the growth patterns of the jaws.
Orthodontic Treatment: For moderate Class III malocclusions, self-ligating braces (whether ceramic or metal) are often used to shift the teeth into proper alignment. These braces apply continuous, gentle pressure to move the teeth over time, correcting the underbite and improving the patient’s bite function.
Appliances: In some cases, functional appliances such as reverse pull headgear (also known as a protraction facemask) may be recommended. This appliance is used to guide jaw growth in younger patients, encouraging forward movement of the upper jaw.
The reverse pull headgear applies gentle forward-pulling force on the upper jaw, helping to correct the skeletal imbalance. This is particularly effective when used between the ages of 7 and 9 so early consultation and intervention is critical to avoiding missing the ideal treatment window!
Severe Class III Malocclusion
Severe Class III malocclusions are characterized by a significant skeletal discrepancy between the upper and lower jaws. In these cases, the lower jaw is either much larger than the upper jaw or the upper jaw is significantly underdeveloped. Severe cases can cause functional problems, including difficulty chewing, speaking, and uneven wear of teeth.
Orthodontic Treatment: In severe cases, self-ligating braces (ceramic, metal, or Damon) are used in conjunction with other orthodontic appliances to address the complexity of the misalignment.
In some cases, the jaw discrepancy is too large to correct with braces alone and corrective (orthognathic) jaw surgery is needed once jaw growth is complete.
Appliances: Temporary anchorage devices (“TADs”) are sometimes used in conjunction with braces to correct Class III malocclusions. These devices provide anchor points on the upper and lower jaw so that elastics can be used to improve the upper and lower jaw relationship. This technique has been shown to produce more skeletal change than facemask therapy but is more invasive.
Orthodontic Treatment Options for Class III Malocclusion
At Burke & Redford Orthodontists, Dr. Ryan Redford and Dr. Michael Burke offer a variety of advanced treatment options for Class III Malocclusion. Every treatment plan is customized to meet the unique needs of each patient, with the goal of achieving the best possible outcome.
Self-Ligating Ceramic Braces
Advantages: Ceramic braces are tooth-colored, offering a more esthetically pleasing option for patients who are concerned about the appearance of traditional metal braces. These braces use a clip mechanism instead of elastic ties to hold the archwire in place, reducing the time needed for adjustment and allowing for longer intervals between adjustments.
Ideal for: Mild to severe Class III malocclusions where the primary concern is tooth alignment rather than skeletal discrepancies.
Self-Ligating Metal Braces
Advantages: Metal braces are highly durable and can withstand more pressure, making them ideal for treating any degree of Class III malocclusions. Self-ligating metal braces also reduce adjustment time, and the number of adjustments needed.
Ideal for: Mild to severe Class III malocclusions that require significant tooth and jaw movement.
Damon Braces
Advantages: Damon braces are a popular choice due to their name brand familiarity. They use a passive self-ligating system that allows the archwire to slide easily within the braces.
Ideal for: Mild to severe Class III malocclusions, like other self-ligating systems.
Appliances and Techniques Used for Class III Malocclusion Treatment
In addition to self-ligating braces, certain appliances may be used to guide jaw growth and correct alignment issues in Class III malocclusion patients.
Reverse Pull Headgear (Facemask): This appliance is used to promote forward growth of the upper jaw in younger patients, helping to correct skeletal discrepancies. This can produce changes in the jaw relationship, not just the position of the teeth as with braces! Timing is important with facemask therapy as it works most effectively between the ages of 7 and 9.
Extraction of teeth: In some cases, extraction of select teeth is considered to help shift the teeth into a more favorable position when correcting an underbite.
Temporary Anchorage Devices (TADs): These anchor points are applied to the jaws (not the teeth) and can be used in conjunction with elastics to improve the upper and lower jaw relationship.
Benefits of Early Treatment for Class III Malocclusion
Early intervention is critical for successful treatment of Class III malocclusion! By addressing the issue early, Burke & Redford Orthodontists can guide jaw growth, reduce the need for more invasive treatments later, and prevent further complications. If there is a family history of underbites or if you suspect an underbite facial pattern in your child, seek care early! Age 7 is ideal for the initial consultation.
Improved Jaw Growth: Early treatment helps ensure that the upper and lower jaws develop properly, minimizing the risk of severe skeletal discrepancies.
Prevention of Severe Issues: Correcting malocclusion early can prevent future bite problems and reduce the likelihood of more extensive orthodontic and/or dental work later.
Enhanced Functionality: Early treatment improves a patient’s ability to chew, speak, and smile with confidence.
Why Our Patients Choose Burke & Redford Orthodontists for Class III Malocclusion Treatment
Burke & Redford Orthodontists, led by Dr. Ryan Redford and Dr. Michael Burke, have over 30 years of experience treating complex orthodontic issues like Class III malocclusion. Their state-of-the-art facilities in Temecula and Lake Elsinore provide advanced orthodontic care, offering self-ligating braces, functional appliances, and personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s unique needs.
How We Can Help Your Child or Teenager with a Class III Malocclusion
Class III malocclusion is a complex orthodontic issue that can have significant effects on oral health and quality of life. Our pediatric orthodontists offer a range of orthodontic treatment options, including self-ligating ceramic braces, metal braces, Damon braces, and specialized appliances like reverse pull headgear and TADs.
By addressing Class III malocclusion early, patients can achieve optimal jaw alignment, improved functionality, and a confident smile. You can learn more about the different types of classes of malocclusions.
Call Burke & Redford Orthodontists today on (951) 699-8011 and let our experienced orthodontic team help your child achieve a healthier, more beautiful smile.