ISSN / eISSN: 0033-8362 / 1826-6983
Ahmed A Aldeaij¹, Sultan Hameed AlAnazi²
Skeletal anterior open bite (AOB) is a complex dentofacial deformity characterized by a lack of vertical overlap of the anterior teeth due to skeletal discrepancies, dental/alveolar compensations, or both. Correction often requires a combined orthodontic orthognathic surgical approach to address both dental and skeletal components, improve function, esthetics, and achieve stable long term outcomes. Report of 2 cases is discussed and review discusses the current literature on combined orthodontic and surgical treatment for skeletal open bite, including diagnosis & treatment planning, surgical techniques, factors affecting relapse, and longterm stability. The evidence suggests that while combined treatment can produce significant improvements in overbite, facial esthetics, and occlusion, relapse, especially vertical relapse remains a considerable challenge. Protocol standardization, careful orthodontic preparation (especially arch width/form, curve of Spee, molar intrusion if used, and patient selection are key. Future directions include improved 3D imaging & planning, better understanding of airway & neuromuscular influences, skeletal anchorage adjuncts, and longer followups to better quantify stability and relapse risk.
Keywords:
Skeletal open bite, Orthognathic surgery, Combined orthodontic-surgical treatment, Open bite correction, Maxillofacial deformity, Le Fort I osteotomy, Mandibular surgery.
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