Dental appliances with inadequate occlusal coverage: a case report

A case is presented which illustrates the occlusal problems that can develop when a dental appliance such as a temporomandibular splint with incomplete occlusal cover is worn for a reasonable length of time. As in this case, the selective over-eruption of posterior teeth not incorporated in the appliance can lead to the development of an anterior open bite and an increased overjet. A simple orthodontic method to correct the iatrogenic malocclusion through the re-intrusion of the over-erupted teeth is shown and the importance of providing long-term dental appliances with full occlusal contact is discussed.