Anterior open bite is where there is no vertical overlap or contact between the upper and lower incisors. 

Aetiology

  • Digit sucking
  • Tongue thrusting
  • Genetics

Management

  • Discouragement of digit sucking habit/tongue thrusting
  • Observe anterior open bite (AOB) as in some cases AOB may reduce spontaneously. This is due to maturation of soft tissue and improved lip competence.
  • Acceptance to AOB
  • Orthodontic correction to AOB
    • Extrusion of incisors is inadvisable
    • Should aim to intrude molars
    • Intrusion of molars can be attempted with high-pull headgear and/or buccal-capping on a removable appliance e.g. maxillary intrusion splint/ buccal intrusion splint
    • Can use high-pull headgear and buccal blocks to restrain vertical maxillary growth
    • Best time to do this is during pubertal growth spurt
    • Class 2 malocclusions can be treated with twin block appliances and van-beek appliances. In many cases fixed appliances are used to complete arch alignment together with extraction
    • Relief of crowding
  • Surgery
    • Orthognathic surgery to correct AOB   
References

Burford, D. and Noar, J.H., 2003. The causes, diagnosis and treatment of anterior open bite. Dental update, 30(5), pp.235-241.

Sandler, P.J., Madahar, A.K. and Murra, A., 2011. Anterior open bite: aetiology and management. Dental update, 38(8), pp.522-532.

Ferguson, J.W., 1995. The assessment and treatment of anterior open bite. Dental update, 22(4), pp.163-168.

Ngan, P. and Fields, H.W., 1997. Open bite: a review of etiology and management. Pediatric dentistry, 19(2), p.91.

See also Anterior & Posterior Crossbites