Treatment of Skeletal Open Bite With Open Bite Activator and Skeletal Anchorage-Supported Vertical Elastics

This study evaluated a new treatment approach for skeletal open bite in growing individuals using an open bite activator combined with anterior skeletal anchorage-supported vertical elastics. An open bite is a condition where the front teeth don't touch when the back teeth are closed together, creating a gap. Traditional treatments often use extraoral appliances (devices worn outside the mouth), which can be uncomfortable and aesthetically unappealing, leading to poor patient compliance. We included 24 growing patients (14 females, 10 males) aged 12-14 years with skeletal open bite. All participants received an open bite activator (a removable functional appliance) and mini-screws placed between the upper and lower lateral and canine teeth. Vertical elastics were connected between these mini-screws, applying 150g of force for 20-22 hours daily over 12 months. Lateral cephalometric radiographs (specialized X-rays) were taken before treatment and after 12 months to evaluate changes in facial bone structure and tooth positions. Our results showed successful correction of open bite with an average increase in overbite of 3.35mm. We observed favorable skeletal changes including clockwise rotation of the maxilla (upper jaw), counterclockwise rotation of the mandible (lower jaw), and decreased vertical facial dimensions. This treatment approach offers a viable alternative to conventional methods that rely on extraoral appliances, potentially improving patient comfort and compliance. The protocol successfully addresses both skeletal and dental components of open bite malocclusion in growing patients.