Abstract

Personalized and Patient-Centered Approach to Class II Treatment

by Fleming Padhraig

The advent of novel approaches to molar correction and an increasing acceptance of our limited ability to modify facial growth has contributed to new diagnostic challenges in the management of Class II malocclusion. We will consider the predictability and impact of a range of alternatives with an emphasis on tailoring treatment approaches on an individual basis accounting for space and anchorage requirements. Recommendations will be made based on individual scenarios with clinical tips to troubleshoot Class II correction in both children and adults. In particular, the use of removable functional appliances will be considered with an emphasis on the refinement of wear protocols and the streamlining of designs in order to improve predictability. The relative merits of molar distal movement versus mid-arch extraction and the effect of extractions on the posterior dentition will also be considered on the basis of contemporary best evidence. Finally, the impact of these approaches on long-term maintenance will be considered.

Learning Objectives

After this lecture, you will be able to appreciate the merits and limitations of growth modification being capable of appliance design when Class II issues co-exist with local malocclusion
After this lecture, you will be able to recognise the impact of the nature of space requirement on the approach to Class II correction
After this lecture, you will be able to understand the indications for molar distal movement and the likely effect of distal movement on terminal molars