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Non-surgery Treatment with MEAW Technique in Skeletal Class III Malocclusion and Facial Asymmetry in Adults: A Case Report
Abstract
Background
Treating skeletal Class III malocclusions characterized by mandibular deviation, facial asymmetry, and other complex orthodontic issues is among the most demanding orthodontic procedures. Orthognathic surgery is not recommended to everyone due to the dangers involved. Hence, it is considered to be very difficult to correct face asymmetry with orthodontics alone, much less without surgery.
Objective
The goals of this case study were to decrease crowding in the upper teeth, manage the vertical dimension, and treat the patient's primary complaints of crossbite in the anterior teeth and facial asymmetry.
Case Presentation
A female patient, aged 21, came in with many concerns, including an incisor crossbite, facial asymmetry, and an insecurity that manifested only when she smiled. An adult patient with a mandibular deviation to the right and an incisor crossbite received orthodontic treatment for these issues. The patient had asymmetric molar extraction in both the lower and upper jaws to retract the lower incisors and correct the midline of the teeth using intermaxillary elastic. Fixed appliances were utilized in conjunction with overbearing lower anterior braces to manage the torque on the lower anterior teeth. As a result, she had a pleasant smile, a harmonious face, and stable dental and skeletal connections. The whole therapeutic period lasted 30 months. As a result, asymmetric molar extraction may be an acceptable option for retracting mandibular incisors in Class III malocclusion with facial asymmetry.
Conclusion
The most important step in treating the severe skeletal Class III malocclusion in this patient without surgery was to retract the lower arch. After using the MEAW approach, Class III elastics, posterior bite turbos, and orthopedic splint treatment, the patient reported a satisfactory achievement.