Posterior maxillary segmental distraction for the treatment of severe lateral open bite caused by primary failure of tooth eruption: A case report

This report describes a case of unilateral posterior open bite caused by primary failure of eruption. A 24-year-old male presented with left side unilateral open bite and a Class III skeletal relationship. A segmental osteotomy was performed, and an alveolar distractor was put in place for gradual downward movement of the left maxillary dentition after left mandibular molar movement. After 4 weeks of distraction, the distractor was removed, and the segment was moved into the therapeutically desired position by applying intermaxillary elastics. Although the left maxillary second molar was not mobilized sufficiently, the unilateral open bite was successfully treated, and a generally good occlusion was obtained. Our results suggest that applying the floating bone concept is effective in improving the unilateral open bite caused by multiple ankylosed teeth.