Masticatory Muscle Characteristics as a Biological Explanation for Interindividual Variability During Class II Functional Appliance Treatment: A Conceptual Synthesis

Objectives

To conceptually synthesize existing evidence on whether masticatory muscle characteristics, assessed by masseter muscle thickness, may explain interindividual variability in skeletal and dentoalveolar treatment outcomes following functional appliance therapy in children with Class II malocclusion. Additionally, to explore the potential of the mandibular gonial angle as a practical cephalometric indicator for predicting treatment response. Material and methods: Previously published studies investigating the effects of functional appliances on skeletal and dentoalveolar outcomes in children with Class II malocclusion were conceptually synthesized. Particular attention was given to the relationship between baseline masseter muscle thickness, mandibular gonial angle, and treatment-related skeletal and dentoalveolar adaptations.