Final answer:
The Angle classification system for malocclusions has been expanded beyond dental relationships to include analyses of skeletal jaw relationships and facial growth patterns, aiding in more comprehensive treatment planning in orthodontics.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Angle classification of malocclusion was indeed later extended to include not just the dental relationships but also skeletal jaw relationships (cephalometrics) and facial growth patterns.Edward Angle, who is known as the father of modern orthodontics, developed the classification system for malocclusions based on the relative position of the permanent first molars. This has been the fundamental method of describing and diagnosing malocclusions since the late 19th century. However, with advances in the understanding of dentofacial morphology and the advent of cephalometric radiography, the scope of orthodontic diagnosis expanded.
Cephalometrics allowed for the analysis of skeletal relationships, providing a deeper understanding of how malocclusions may be influenced by the skeletal structure rather than just dental positioning alone. Additionally, the assessment of facial growth patterns became an important component in treatment planning, particularly for the pediatric demographic where growth can be guided to correct or mitigate future malocclusions. These advancements have given clinicians a broader base from which to develop more comprehensive treatment plans tailored to each individual's unique set of anatomical circumstances.