A non-cephalometric three-dimensional appraisal of soft tissue changes by functional appliances in orthodontics: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Background: Patients with dental and skeletal Class II growth patterns present typical facial characteristics. Functional appliance (FA) therapy is one of the conventional orthodontic treatment modalities used to harmonize these facial imbalances.

Objectives: The aim of this systematic review was to investigate and summarize the effects of FAs on the facial soft tissues captured in three dimensions.

A non-cephalometric two-dimensional appraisal of soft tissue changes by functional therapy in Class II patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Background: Facial attractiveness has social, psychological, and economic repercussions. Class II malocclusions are associated with a retroposition of the mandible, facial convexity, protruded upper lip, retruded lower lip, and pronounced mentolabial fold. Functional appliances (FA) try to increase mandibular length and normalize lip position, thereby decreasing the facial profile convexity and aesthetics.