Comparative effectiveness of orthopedic devices for treating skeletal Class III malocclusion in growing patients

Abstract

Aim: Skeletal Class III malocclusion (Cl III) presents a significant orthodontic challenge, particularly in growing patients requiring interceptive treatment to achieve effective functional and aesthetic correction. This review compares various orthopedic devices and therapeutic protocols used in Cl III correction, identifying the most effective options in an interceptive context.Materials and methods: We searched the PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases for studies published in English, human studies, open-access studies, and studies addressing Cl III correction with interceptive orthopedic devices. Results: Exclusions included in vitro animal studies, off-topic studies, reviews, meta-analyses, and articles in languages other than English. Conclusions: Orthopedic devices can rapidly improve Cl III malocclusion in growing patients, although each device has specific effects on the surrounding skeletal structure.