Etiology and Treatment Modalities of Anterior Open Bite Malocclusion

The complexity of anterior open bite is attributed to a combination of skeletal, dental, soft tissue, and habitual factors. Multiple treatment strategies aimed at different etiologies of anterior open bite have been proposed. However, the tendency toward relapse after conventional or surgical orthodontic treatment has been indicated. Therefore, anterior open bite is considered one of the most challenging dentofacial deformities to treat. The aim of this article is to review the etiologies, dentofacial morphology, treatment modalities, retention, and stability of anterior open bite. The etiology of anterior open bite malocclusions is multifactorial and numerous theories have been proposed, including genetic, anatomic and environmental factors. The diagnosis and treatment modalities are variable according to the etiology. Failure of tongue posture adaptation subsequent to orthodontic and/or surgical treatment might be the primary reason for relapse of anterior open bite. Prolonged retention with fixed or removable retainers is advisable and necessary in most cases of open bite treatment. The treatment of anterior open bite remains a tough challenge to the clinician; careful diagnosis and timely intervention with proper treatment modalities and appliance selection will improve the treatment outcomes and long-term stability.