Vertical malocclusions: etiology, development, diagnosis and some aspects of treatment

Vertical malocclusions develop as a result of the interaction of many different etiological factors; one of the most important of these factors is mandibular growth. Variations in growth intensity, function of the soft tissues and the jaw musculature as well as the individual dentoalveolar development further influence the evolution of these malocclusions. This article reviews the most common etiological factors and their possible contribution to the development of vertical malocclusions with special emphasis on the role of mandibular growth in the development of open bite and deep bite. The role of the cephalometric morphological analysis in the differential diagnosis of vertical malocclusion is emphasized. Aspects of orthodontic treatment of vertical malocclusions are illustrated with individual cases.