# Jaw malocclusion

> Citation bundle for Jaw malocclusion on The Treatment Registry.
> URL: https://thetreatmentregistry.com/conditions/jaw-malocclusion
> Bundle URL: https://thetreatmentregistry.com/api/citations/conditions/jaw-malocclusion

## Description

Misalignment between the upper and lower jaws — Class II (retrognathic mandible), Class III (prognathic mandible), open bite, or asymmetric — producing functional and aesthetic concerns. Treatment combines orthodontics and, in moderate to severe skeletal cases, orthognathic surgery.

## Treatment ladder

### conservative

- **Orthodontics alone** — Fixed or clear-aligner orthodontics can address mild skeletal discrepancy and most dental malocclusion. Treatment time is typically 12-36 months.

### procedural

- **Orthodontics with skeletal anchorage** — Temporary anchorage devices (mini-implants) enable orthodontic movement beyond what brackets alone achieve. Useful in borderline cases between orthodontics-only and surgery.

### surgical

- **Orthognathic jaw surgery** — Single-jaw (maxillary or mandibular) or double-jaw surgery, typically preceded and followed by orthodontic treatment. The standard treatment for moderate to severe skeletal malocclusion; outcomes can be marked but operative and recovery time are substantial.

## Related procedures

- https://thetreatmentregistry.com/procedures/jaw-surgery

## Sources

- [WHO Surgical Safety Checklist](https://www.who.int/teams/integrated-health-services/patient-safety/research/safe-surgery) — World Health Organization (accessed 2026-05-09)