Open bite – dental and skeletal. Differential diagnosis, prophylaxis and treatment. Retention problem

Abstract

Background: Open bite is a common and complex malocclusion. The etiological factors are well described and in most cases this malocclusion appears in childhood and it is due to deleterous habits. Not only can thumb-sucking cause this problem but also some upper and lower airways obstructions. Because of the obstruction the child cannot sleep normally and this may cause sleep apnea. Aims: To describe the connection between different specialist such as orthodontists and otolaryngologist, which in most cases can diagnose this condition and work as a team. Study Desigh: self-controlled study. Methods: The following article is going to represent methods for diagnosting and treatment of dental and skeletal open bite malocclusion. It will be discussed the main etiological factors and different types of treatment in early, mixed and permanent dentition. Treatment plan can be orthodontic, orthodontic-surgical and the appliances used for this purposes can be removable and fixed. There are extraction and non-extraction methods and the benefits and disadvantages will be discussed. Results: For perfect occlusion and normal airways we must first remove the etiological factors and then continue with orthodontics. If orthodontic treatment is firstly conducted, but the etiological factor such as hypertrophied palatal tonsils is not removed, we will not have a stable result and there is a risk of relapse. Conclusion: Stable results can be accomplished with proper treatment, including variety of specialist, and long-enough period of retention.