Non-Surgical Correction Of Moderate-Severe Skeletal Class III Malocclusion
Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Case Report
Abstract: Introduction Class III skeletal malocclusion is often caused by craniofacial developmental abnormalities, and severe cases typically require orthognathic surgery in adulthood. This case demonstrates the use of Force-Transmission Mechanics (FTM), developed by Prof. Lin Jiu-Xiang’s team at Peking University School of Stomatology, for non-surgical orthodontic camouflage treatment. By applying force-transmission principles, the technique achieved coordination of maxillo-mandi Case description A 14-year-old female presented with “underbite” and was diagnosed with severe Class III skeletal malocclusion (Wits: -11.7 mm, ANB: -4.2°), vertical growth pattern, anterior and posterior crossbite, mandibular deviation, and moderate crowding in both arches. Treatment involved extraction of teeth 38 and 48, followed by FTM therapy. After 3 years, crossbite was resolved, overjet and overbite were normalized, midlines were aligned, and facial aesthetics improved, achieving satisfactory camouflage results. Discussion Conventionally, this case would require orthodontic-surgical treatment. However, as the patient’s mandible could retract to edge-to-edge incisor relationship and non-surgical treatment was strongly requested, dental anchorage and light intermaxillary traction were used to correct sagittal jaw relationships. The treatment avoided mini-implants or extraoral forces. The low-friction, light-force (≤60g) design minimized risks of root resorption and bone dehiscence, aligning with the health-focused philosophy of FTM. Conclusion/clinical significance FTM offers a reliable non-surgical solution for severe Class III malocclusion. Its light-force mechanics provide a replicable treatment paradigm for orthodontists, particularly for adolescent patients who reject or are unsuitable for surgery.
Source: International Dental Journal
Authors: Weng Yang, ZhiJun Zheng, Qi Li
Language: English
Subfield: Orthodontics
Field: Dentistry
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,550
OpenAlex ID: W4415832600
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