Class 3 malocclusion before and after braces

Class 3 malocclusion may improve with orthodontic treatment, but the before-and-after result depends on tooth position, jaw growth, and the treatment plan.

The orthodontist evaluates facial growth, dental midlines, overjet, crossbite, tooth inclinations, periodontal tissues, and jaw position using an examination and records such as photographs, scans, and radiographs. In a growing child, growth guidance may be considered; in an adult, camouflage or jaw surgery may be discussed depending on the skeletal pattern.

Treatment may use braces, elastics, expansion, extractions, or other appliances, with the sequence planned from the diagnosis. Keep appliances clean, attend adjustments, wear elastics as directed, and use retainers after active treatment.

Arrange an orthodontic assessment for an underbite, front teeth that do not meet, chewing difficulty, tooth wear, or jaw discomfort. Seek prompt review for severe appliance pain, facial swelling, or a broken wire causing injury.

Is the Class 3 pattern dental or skeletal, what change can braces achieve alone, is growth guidance or surgery relevant, how will the bite be measured, and what retention is planned?