The role of dental compensations in the orthodontic treatment of mandibular prognathism.

Thirty-six patients with orthodontically treated mandibular prognathism were recalled for cephalometric and clinical evaluation. A comparison group of 32 non-Class III patients was similarly examined. Analysis of variables associated with the anterior dentition and documentationtion of labial gingival recession and tooth mobility led to the following conclusions concerning the role of dental compensations in the orthodontic treatment of mandibular prognathism. 1. Vertical and horizontal dental compensations were quantitated in the dentition of the study group (pretreatment to postretention). 2. Increased labial gingival recession and increased tooth mobility in functional jaw positions were present in anterior maxillary and mandibular teeth of the study group relative to the comparison group. 3. Proper diagnosis and the establishment of realistic treatment objectives by clinician and patient are necessary to avoid undesirable sequelae and/or undesirable facial esthetics in the treatment of mandibular prognathism.