Introduction:

In growing skeletal class II patients, the ideal treatment is etiological and is obtained by modifying the amount and direction of mandibular growth. With this objective in mind, functional activators (FA) are used as they stimulate growth, redirecting it at the condylar level through forward mandibular advancement. After pubertal growth peak, etiological correction is surgical.

Objective:

The present article aims to report a successful treatment in a patient after pubertal growth peak treated with a removable FA.

Methods:

>A 13 years 3 months male patient, skeletal class II due to retrognathic mandible, brachyfacial and with a convex facial profile. The patient had complete permanent dentition, Angle class II, increased overjet and overbite. Maxillary and mandibular incisive proclination. Scissor bite of teeth #2.4 and #2.5.

Results:

Treatment started using a FA for one year after first evaluation. Following eight months of treatment, stable mandibular position was observed in skeletal class I, verified by functional and radiographic examinations. Resolution of scissor bite was accomplished. Overjet and overbite, and bimaxillary incisive proclination were improved.

Conclusions:

The ideal time to use FAs for skeletal management in skeletal class II is during, or slightly after peak pubertal growth. However, the clinical results of present case, allows recommending the forward mandibular advancement in brachyfacial skeletal class II patients, even though pubertal growth peak had occurred. In these cases, the use of FA is primarily aimed at the dental benefits, but, at the same time, favoring mandibular growth.

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