Non-Surgical ClassIII Correction : Use Of Expander And Delaire Facemask

Class III malocclusion presents a challenge for orthodontists, as it is often associated with aesthetic deficiencies and orofacial dysfunctions. This case report aims to propose an early interceptive treatment for Class III by utilizing maxillary growth potential to avoid, when possible, the need for surgical treatment. Patients are treated with a disjunction appliance with disocclusion ramps (Raymond ramps) combined with the use of a Delaire facemask. This case report concerns two patients: An 8-year-old girl with autism, experiencing masticatory difficulties and phonation issues. She presents with skeletal Class III malocclusion, a complete anterior crossbite, and a 5 mm open bite. A 9-year-old girl with recurrent abdominal pain and gingival injuries. She presents with Class III malocclusion with an anterior crossbite and deep bite, causing gingival trauma on the lingual side of the mandibular incisors. A complete correction of the anterior crossbite was obtained within 9 months for the first case and 6 months for the second. In case of an open bite, the patient places her tongue between the dental arches during functions (swallowing, phonation) as well as at rest. Speech therapy sessions need to be considered. The question also arises regarding the potential for mandibular growth and the risk of relapse during the growth peak. These results demonstrate the effectiveness of early treatment in class III patients and offer the possibility of considering interceptive treatments that enhance patient comfort during growth and reduce the need for orthognathic surgery in adulthood.