Facilitating mandibular horizontal growth in a Class II high-angle case with a modified functional appliance

BackgroundGrowth control of the mandible often presents some difficulties in modifying the growth direction anteriorly, especially in Class II high-angle cases. We describe here a novel procedure employing J-hook headgear in combination with a functional appliance.MethodsWe used a functional appliance incorporating J-hook headgear to promote horizontal growth of the mandible and to restrain maxillary downward growth.ResultsUse of this combination allowed us to correct the Class II malocclusion without inducing mandibular rotation, while restraining downward growth of the maxillary complex and maxillary molars.ConclusionsThis report suggests the potential effectiveness of combining high-pull J-hook headgear with a functional appliance in facilitating mandibular horizontal growth in Class II high-angle cases during the growth period.