The anterior open bite problem (infraclusion).

Abstract

Anterior open bite is a major orthodontic problem that is very difficult to treat (Fig. 1). It may not be the most frequent problem but it is a major functional problem. Quite often it is very difficult to correct an anterior open bite problem and even more difficult to treat in an adult after growth. Most of the time anterior open bite is a myofunctional problem related to a bad habit like thumb or finger sucking and/or is related to a breathing and swallowing problem. How can we understand the functional open bite problem? What are the available treatment options? This article will try to answer some of these questions.