An Evidence Base of Treatment Outcome for Class II Malocclusion

Class II malocclusion is the most prevalent malocclusion, might entail dentoalveolar and/or skeletal components, and its treatment includes a very wide spectrum of options. The optimal time to start treatment ranges from adolescence to early adulthood, while several different protocols like early orthopedic intervention, correction through purely dental movement, or a combined orthodontic-surgical approach exist. However, as is often seen in orthodontics, there exists a varying degree of robust scientific evidence to support specific treatment approaches, and many claims about their efficacy or efficiency are based on anecdotal evidence, personal preferences, and manufacturers’ claims. The aim of this chapter is to provide an overview and critical appraisal of evidence originating from clinical studies underlying each Class II treatment approach.