Anterior open bite - diagnostics and therapy

Abstract

An anterior open bite (AOB) is an occlusal disorder that causes the patient both an aesthetic and functional handicap. The lower third of the face is disproportionately larger. Patients are unable to properly occlude with the anterior part of dental arch and occlusion only happens in the premolar and/or molar regions. An anterior open bite may be the result of anatomical anomalies. Long term stability as well as an immediate outcome of the surgery depends on the choice of a suitable treatment strategy. In this article, we review options of AOB treatment, from classical orthodontic treatment to current combined orthodontic and surgical approach with a benefit of an anchor system.

Keywords: Le Fort I osteotomy; Orthodontics; anchor systems; anterior open bite; bilateral sagittal split osteotomy (BSSO); bimaxillary segmental osteotomy; combined orthodontic-surgical therapy; result stability; transversal expansion.