Which malocclusion is described by a convex facial profile?

Which malocclusion is described by a convex facial profile?

• A. II/2 class
• B. II/1 class
• C. III class (skeletal form)
• D. I class

Answer: (B)

A convex facial profile occurs when the upper jaw sits forward relative to the lower jaw or the mandible sits back, giving a forward-curving contour to the face. In orthodontics, this is most typical of Class II malocclusion, especially Division 1, where the maxillary incisors are proclined and the lips are more protrusive. That forward position of the upper teeth and lip support makes the profile appear noticeably convex. In contrast, skeletal Class III tends to produce a concave profile because the mandible is positioned forward, while Class I usually has a balanced, normal profile. Class II Division 2 can have a less pronounced convexity due to retroclined upper incisors and often a deeper bite, which can flatten the profile somewhat.

A convex facial profile occurs when the upper jaw sits forward relative to the lower jaw or the mandible sits back, giving a forward-curving contour to the face. In orthodontics, this is most typical of Class II malocclusion, especially Division 1, where the maxillary incisors are proclined and the lips are more protrusive. That forward position of the upper teeth and lip support makes the profile appear noticeably convex.

In contrast, skeletal Class III tends to produce a concave profile because the mandible is positioned forward, while Class I usually has a balanced, normal profile. Class II Division 2 can have a less pronounced convexity due to retroclined upper incisors and often a deeper bite, which can flatten the profile somewhat.