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

In the case of class III hyperdivergent patients, surgery is often suggested as the preferred treatment option due to the complexity of the condition. Class III malocclusion, characterized by the lower jaw being positioned more forward than the upper jaw, can be associated with various skeletal discrepancies that are often too significant to be corrected with orthodontic treatment alone, particularly in hyperdivergent cases where the vertical growth pattern adds further challenge.

Surgical intervention allows for the skeletal correction necessary to achieve proper occlusion and facial aesthetics. This typically involves orthognathic surgery, where the jaws are repositioned to create a harmonious relationship between the maxilla and mandible. Such surgical options are most effective in adult patients, where growth is complete, and the skeletal discrepancies can be permanently addressed.

Other treatment options may play a role in the management of Class III malocclusion; however, they might not provide the meaningful skeletal changes needed in hyperdivergent patients. For example, while braces with expansion can assist in minor alignment corrections, they often do not resolve significant skeletal issues. Similarly, orthopedic appliances and functional appliances may be utilized in growing patients to modify growth patterns, but they are less effective in adults or those with severe skeletal discrepancies. Early intervention is important