Orthodontic treatment of anterior open bite.

OBJECTIVE To review the currently available treatment options of anterior open bite. METHODS Search all major dental journals and literature on treatment and management of anterior open bite. Medline search (1960-2006). Literature and data on treatment and management of anterior open bite with keywords 'open bite', 'anterior open bite', 'orthodontic treatment', 'long face', 'vertical dentoalveolar problem' and 'vertical skeletal problem'. RESULTS Over 50 articles were found and relevant information and data were reviewed by the authors. It was found that the multifactorial nature of anterior open bite makes its management difficult and various treatment modalities are being used. Clinicians must be able to diagnose the problem and choose the best treatment. CONCLUSION Successful treatment of anterior open bite greatly relies on both diagnosis and therapeutics. Although there are many different treatment modalities available, stability after treatment is still a critical issue as evidence on long term stability of various treatment options is lacking. Thus, clinicians should pay more attention during retention phase and long-term studies on post-treatment changes and stability should be encouraged.