Which of the following is a principle of treatment for malocclusion Class III by Angle (functional form)?

Which of the following is a principle of treatment for malocclusion Class III by Angle (functional form)?

• A. Simulation of growth of upper dental arch
• B. Expansion of maxilla
• C. Backward mandibular shifting till correct position
• D. Simulation of growth of maxilla

Answer: (C)

Repositioning the mandible to a retruded, correct functional position is the central idea. In Angle’s functional form for Class III, a bite appliance guides the lower jaw backward and the patient learns to maintain that posture during function. This retrusion uses the neuromuscular system to redirect growth and settling of the bite so the overjet reduces and occlusion improves, without directly forcing growth of the upper jaw or expanding the maxilla. The goal is a stable, harmonious bite achieved by backward shifting of the mandible until the teeth meet in a corrected relationship.

Repositioning the mandible to a retruded, correct functional position is the central idea. In Angle’s functional form for Class III, a bite appliance guides the lower jaw backward and the patient learns to maintain that posture during function. This retrusion uses the neuromuscular system to redirect growth and settling of the bite so the overjet reduces and occlusion improves, without directly forcing growth of the upper jaw or expanding the maxilla. The goal is a stable, harmonious bite achieved by backward shifting of the mandible until the teeth meet in a corrected relationship.