Correction of severe vertical maxillary excess with anterior open bite and transverse maxillary deficiency

Patients requiring correction of large anterior open bites have historically been among the most challenging treatments for orthodontists. Adding to that fundamental challenge for the adult patient in this case was vertical maxillary excess, a severe transverse maxillary deficiency as well as an arch length inadequacy, even though the patient had prior orthodontic treatment. The prior orthodontist had included arch expansion and extracted four first bicuspids, which limited current treatment options. Various treatment modalities that have traditionally been used to correct transverse maxillary deficiency and the accompanying arch length inadequacy include extractions, labial and buccal dental tipping, segmental maxillary osteotomies, and rapid maxillary expansion with or without surgical assistance. Transverse maxillary distraction osteogenesis is a modification (ie, using a latency period and specific rate and rhythm of distraction) of the surgically assisted rapid maxillary expansion technique developed 25 years ago. This case demonstrates the relationship of transverse maxillary deficiency as well as vertical maxillary excess to apertognathia. Considerations regarding the use of segmental maxillary osteotomy vs transverse distraction osteogenesis are discussed. This case report illustrates the benefit of a team approach using transverse maxillary distraction osteogenesis, effective orthodontic mechanics, and orthognathic surgery to correct a severe dentofacial deformity.