A long-term evaluation of treated Class II division 2 malocclusions: a retrospective study model analysis

Pre-treatment, end of treatment, and post-retention study models of 30 subjects with a Class II division 2 malocclusion were assessed, after a period of at least 3 years, in order to evaluate the long-term changes in occlusion, alignment, and arch dimensions. Molar relationship correction was found to be stable after retention. There were no variables which could be used to establish a prognosis of vertical stability. Over-correction of overbite was seen to relapse. Ten per cent of the cases showed unacceptable anterior maxillary irregularities after retention. Mandibular arch width and length usually showed a decrease after retention. An increase in lower intercanine width and arch length achieved by orthodontic treatment always relapsed. This relapse was associated with post-retention mandibular irregularity and crowding. Nine cases (30 per cent) showed an unacceptable degree of mandibular irregularity after retention. Pre-treatment crowding in the mandible showed a relationship with post-retention lower irregularity and crowding. There was a correlation between the number of years which had elapsed after retention, overbite relapse and post-retention mandibular irregularity.