Angle class I malocclusion. Principles of diagnosis and treatment

Abstract

Introduction. Nowadays the importance of the smile is being extraordinarily important. The smile influences our mood, self confidence, thoughts and social relationships. Therefore, owners of an aesthetic smile are more prone to smile than those with dento-alveolar disharmonies. Following this aspect, one of the main reasons for the orthodontic treatment is the aesthetical one. Angle class I malocclusions are characterized by dental alignment disharmonies, when skeletal involvement is minor, presenting a normal antero-posterior intermaxillary relationship. Aim of the study. Etiopathogenic study, correct diagnosis and treatment of Angle class I malocclusion. Materials and methods.. A study was performed on 12 patients who had different degrees of severity of dento-maxillary crowding. For diagnostical purpose the following investigations were done: panoramic radiography (OPG), cephalometric and model analysis. An individual treatment plan was done for each patient. Two methods of treatment were selected: removable and fixed orthodontic appliances.Results. The treatment method was chosen according to severity degree and patient's age. Thus, 8 patients of 12 were treated through fixed appliances, while the other 4 persons were using removable orthodontic appliances. Cooperative patients during the growth period and that have no severe teeth crowding, have wore removable appliances for 9 to 12 months, while the others were treated through fixed adhesive system within about 1,5 years. Conclusions. Patients that wore removable appliances, followed by fixed appliances, achieved their aesthetic objectives, maximum intercuspation and a functional occlusion.