A review on maxillary protraction therapy for early skeletal class III malocclusion

Skeletal Class Ⅲ malocclusion is one of the most common developmental malocclusions in clinics, which would aggravate with age and has a serious impact on oral function, facial appearance and mental health. In the early stage of patient’s growth and development, the maxillary protraction can be used to promote maxillary development and treating skeletal class Ⅲ malocclusion with maxillary deficiency, thereby creating a beneficial environment for patients. So far, the treatment timing, methods and long-term stability of maxillary protraction are still controversial. Relevant research are reviewed in this article. Key words: Skeletal Class Ⅲ malocclusion; Maxillary protraction; Alternate rapid maxillary expansions and contractions; Skeletal anchorage