Correction of an skeletal anterior open bite with mini-screws and a modifi ed bite block

Abstract

Skeletal anterior open bite may be treated with mini-screws since they provide an absolute anchorage to correct it through maxillary molar intrusion. With an adequate control a bite block was used in this case to help correct the malocclusion. Case report: A 15 year-old male dolichofacial patient with an Angle class II division 1 malocclusion, a -4.5 mm anterior open bite and incompetent lips is hereby presented. Etiology: reduced anterior upper facial height. The treatment goal was to obtain a normal anterior overbite decreasing the posterior maxillary dentoalveolar height. Orthognathic surgery was indicated but the patient refused it. So the treatment consisted in two mini-screws implanted on the palatal side and a modified fixed bite block, activated with elastomeric chains. Results: A molar intrusion of 2 mm was achieved; the anterior overbite changed to +2 mm, a mandibular counterclockwise rotation took place and the facial profi le was improved. Conclusions: The anterior open bite was corrected with a good control during molar intrusion and without buccal tipping.