American Board of Orthodontics (ABO) Practice Exam 2026 - Free Orthodontics Practice Questions and Study Guide

Bimaxillary surgery has become the most common type of surgery for class III malocclusions, as highlighted in Ghassemi's report. This procedure typically involves both the maxilla (upper jaw) and mandible (lower jaw) to achieve an optimal occlusion and facial balance. In cases where class III relationships are present, addressing both jaws is often necessary to achieve functional and aesthetic improvements.

Focusing solely on the maxilla through a maxillary setback may not fully correct the class III discrepancy, nor will a singular mandibular setback adequately address the asymmetries that can be present. Likewise, while orthognathic surgery is a general term that encompasses various surgical procedures aimed at correcting jaw abnormalities, the specific focus on bimaxillary surgery reflects a trend toward comprehensive treatment for more complicated cases. Thus, the preference for bimaxillary surgery indicates an evolution in surgical protocols aimed at maximizing patient outcomes in orthodontic treatments involving class III malocclusions.