American Board of Orthodontics (ABO) Practice Exam 2026 – All-in-One Resource to Master Your Orthodontics Certification!

The recommendation for early treatment of a hyperdivergent phenotype, with the rationale focused on its good potential for mandibular rotation, is rooted in the specific characteristics and treatment implications associated with this condition.

Individuals with a hyperdivergent growth pattern generally exhibit increased vertical facial dimension, which can lead to challenges such as open bites and other occlusal discrepancies. Early intervention can be beneficial as it may help guide the growth of the mandible and maxilla. By utilizing specific orthodontic mechanics, such as functional appliances, practitioners can promote mandibular growth and rotation, improving the overall facial balance and occlusion.

This potential for mandibular rotation during early treatment means that orthodontists can harness the patient's developmental growth patterns effectively. The treatment can create a more favorable environment for bone remodeling and align the dental structures appropriately, potentially reducing the severity of malocclusion as the patient matures.

By addressing the conditions early on, the orthodontist can influence the growth trajectory and potentially decrease the need for more invasive surgical interventions at a later stage. Early management, therefore, not only helps correct existing issues but also optimizes the growth potential of the dentofacial structures in a hyperdivergent patient.