Treating the open bite

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Orthodontics
• Oral Physiology

Background:

• Open bites are frequently associated with tongue thrust, abnormal tongue posture, or mandibular posture.
• The tongue's muscular adaptability influences swallowing dynamics, potentially creating or exacerbating open bites based on its position during rest or function.

Observation:

• Skeletal open bites are less common in individuals with active masseter muscles during swallowing.
• Reduced masseter muscle activity during swallowing, often seen during orthodontic treatment due to occlusal interferences, leads to increased tongue participation.
• The tongue then acts as a cushion between the teeth, initiating or worsening an open bite during the swallowing process.

Findings:

• Weak masseter muscles correlate with a higher likelihood of developing or having an open bite, particularly during orthodontic therapy.
• Orthodontic treatment can create occlusal interferences, diminishing comfortable biting positions and reducing masseter muscle 'squeeze' during swallowing.
• The tongue becomes the primary buffer, positioning itself between teeth and causing or worsening the open bite.

Implications:

• Open bites, once formed, tend to worsen over time and require immediate treatment for optimal correction.
• Dolichocephalic (clockwise-growing) facial types are more susceptible to open bite development during orthodontic treatment, necessitating preventive measures.
• Prompt treatment of open bites is essential, as they can become ingrained habits, making correction more challenging and prolonged.