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Combining traditional techniques to correct anterior open bite and posterior crossbite
Luciane Macedo de Menezes1, Daltro Eneas Ritter, Arno Locks
1Department of Orthodontics, Pontifical Catholic University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.
Summary
This study presents a successful non-surgical treatment for anterior open bite and posterior crossbite in a child. Traditional orthodontics and maxillary traction corrected the malocclusion without skeletal anchorage.
Area of Science:
- Orthodontics
- Dentofacial Orthopedics
Background:
- Anterior open bite treatment often necessitates skeletal anchorage to control posterior tooth eruption and mandibular rotation.
- Achieving skeletal anchorage may not always be feasible or desired by patients.
Observation:
- A young boy presented with an anterior open bite and a posterior crossbite, alongside a skeletal Class II malocclusion.
- The patient's growth potential and willingness to undergo treatment were key factors.
Findings:
- Successful correction of anterior open bite and posterior crossbite was achieved using traditional orthodontic techniques combined with high-pull maxillary traction.
- Maxillary growth contributed vertically to facilitate bite closure, while cross-elastics corrected mandibular posterior teeth inclination.
- Edgewise appliances completed the treatment, resulting in a resolved open bite, normalized overjet, and improved incisor display.
Implications:
- Traditional orthodontic mechanics offer a viable alternative for treating complex malocclusions like open bite and crossbite when skeletal anchorage is not an option.
- This approach highlights the importance of utilizing growth potential and established orthodontic principles for successful dentofacial correction.
