Is Early Treatment with Functional Appliances Worth the Effort? A Discussion of the Pros and Cons 155 of Early Interceptive Treatment

Is Early Treatment with Functional Appliances Worth the Effort? A Discussion of the Pros and Cons 155 of Early Interceptive Treatment

Early treatment of Class II, Div. 1 malocclusion is a much debated approach and some evidence based studies using a single appliance concluded that this approach was often not worthwhile. This article will discuss the pros and cons of early treatment with functional appliances and present guidelines for early treatment. The role of facial growth and dentoalveolar development, and growth intensity will be discussed as they relate to treatment outcome. A retention protocol for early treatment with functional appliances will be suggested.