What is the purpose of a facemask (reverse-pull) appliance and its skeletal target?

• A. It directs forward maxillary protraction to correct maxillary deficiency and improve Class III tendency in growing patients.
• B. It pulls mandible forward to correct Class II.
• C. It expands the palate.
• D. It acts as a night guard.

Answer: (A)

A reverse-pull facemask is used to move the upper jaw forward in growing patients with a tendency toward Class III malocclusion due to maxillary deficiency. The skeletal target is the nasomaxillary complex, which is protracted forward relative to the skull to improve the skeletal relationship and often the bite as well. The appliance works by attaching elastics to a forehead/chin support and pulling the maxilla anteriorly, creating orthopedic (skeletal) movement rather than simply tilting teeth. This is why it’s about forward maxillary protraction and improving maxillary deficiency, not about pulling the chin forward, expanding the palate, or acting as a night guard.