Orthodontic and orthopaedic approach in the treatment of skeletal open bite

The aim of this study was to make a detailed evaluation of the changes in the dentofacial structures that could be effective in the elimination of skeletal open bite. The study was performed on 32 skeletal open bite cases which were treated with Begg technique, Edgewise technique, and functional appliances and findings were analysed by multivariate statistical methods. Open bite was significantly reduced in all of the treatment groups. Apart from minor differences, similar changes were observed with Begg and Edgewise technique treatments. During fixed appliance therapy marked increases in the upper and lower posterior dentoalveolar height were observed, and the mandible rotated backwards. On the other hand, with the functional appliances vertical growth of the posterior upper and lower dentoalveolar region was depressed, and the mandible was rotated forwards and upwards with the centre at the premolars. These findings were confirmed by regression analysis: rotational changes in the maxillary and mandibular bases explained 46 per cent of variance of the reduction of open bite in the functional group, while 28 and 16 per cent of variance was explained in the Edgewise and Begg groups, respectively.