Anterior open bite treatment with Mini-implants: A Case Report

Introduction Open bite malocclusion in adults is considered to be one of the most difficult problems to treat because of its complicated etiology. The etiology of the open bite is multifactorial: genetic and/or environmental factors. The factors ranging from vertical maxillary excess, abnormalities in dental eruption, open bite skeletal pattern and tongue posture problems contributes to this condition making it a challenge for an orthodontist. Open bite is generally classified in two categories: skeletal and dental. Further anterior open bite can range from simple; limited to anteriors to complex extending into the premolar and molar region. The diagnosis of open bite is the key to success of the treatment with specific criteria both in clinical and cephalometric perspectives. The lack of further growth potential restricts our ability to correct by camouflage or orthognathic surgery, unlike adolescents. Each case presents with variety of treatment options, ranging from observation or simple habit control to complex surgical procedures. Therefore, the success and stability of the treatment depends on the presentation of each individual after thorough assessment. Orthodontic mini-implants have overcome the limitations of camouflage orthodontic treatment, especially in cases requiring Abstract: Open bite malocclusion is considered to be one of the most difficult problems to treat. The causes of the open bite are multifactorial, which can develop form genetic and or environmental factors. Reported here is a case of 22 year old female anterior dental open bite with crowding in the anterior segment. On clinical examination and analysis, the case was diagnosed to be Angle’s Class I molar relationship with Class I canine relation, increased overjet of 4mm and negative overbite for 3mm. The patient was successfully treated using orthodontic mini-implants achieving a positive overbite. Our results suggest that orthodontic implants are useful for retraction of anteriors and maintenance of anchorage in anterior open-bite cases.