Class III malocclusion is characterised by poor maxillary growth (maxillary retrognathism) or inadequate mandibular growth (mandibular prognathism) or a combination of both. The most frequent questions regarding Class III treatment are: when should it be performed and which appliance is most appropriate, as there is currently a variety of appliances, however there is little evidence available regarding effectiveness. Moderate evidence shows that early treatment with a face mask results in substantial improvements as well as highlighting that the timing of early treatment is crucial for a successful outcome. The objective of this literature review is to evaluate the effectiveness of the facial mask in the early treatment of Class III malocclusion.

Class III malocclusion is characterised by poor maxillary growth (maxillary retrognathism) or inadequate mandibular growth (mandibular prognathism) or a combination of both. The most frequent questions regarding Class III treatment are: when should it be performed and which appliance is most appropriate, as there is currently a variety of appliances, however there is little evidence available regarding effectiveness. Moderate evidence shows that early treatment with a face mask results in substantial improvements as well as highlighting that the timing of early treatment is crucial for a successful outcome. The objective of this literature review is to evaluate the effectiveness of the facial mask in the early treatment of Class III malocclusion.