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Published on: February 23, 2024
Algorithm for the differential diagnosis of posterior open bites: two illustrative cases
Mitchell W Ponsford1, John P Stella
1Arizona School of Dentistry and Oral Health, Mesa, AZ, USA. mitch.ponsford@gmail.com
Summary
This study presents an algorithm for diagnosing and treating posterior open bites caused by multiple factors. The method successfully diagnosed and treated two adolescent males with complex posterior open bites.
Area of Science:
- Dentistry
- Orthodontics
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
Background:
- Posterior open bites (POBs) stem from diverse etiologies including trauma, degenerative changes, tongue thrust, and ankylosis.
- Combined condylar hyperplasia and dental ankylosis present diagnostic and therapeutic challenges in POB cases.
Observation:
- Two adolescent males with unusual POBs secondary to multiple etiologies were analyzed.
- The cases involved complex interactions of factors contributing to the posterior open bite.
Findings:
- A novel algorithmic approach for diagnosis and treatment was successfully applied.
- The algorithm facilitated accurate diagnosis and effective management of the complex POB cases.
Implications:
- The presented algorithms aid in the differential diagnosis of POBs with unclear causes.
- This approach offers a structured method for managing challenging POB cases in adolescents.
