Posterior Open Bites

This chapter presents a detailed discussion on posterior open bites in a question and answer format using the case of a 15-year-old male presenting problems with chewing. The discussion includes pre-treatment, interim, and post-treatment orthodontic records, as well as references to provide a solid evidence base for decision making. Posterior open bites can adversely affect the ability to chew, and make anterior teeth may undergo excessive wear without the occlusal support of posterior teeth. The hallmark of a posterior open bite is occlusal contact of anterior teeth but lack of occlusal contact of posterior teeth. Closure of posterior open bite, and retention of closure of posterior open bite, can be one of the most difficult problems an orthodontist can face. Interpositional tongue habit, digit habit, transient eruption of first premolars and ankylosis of maxillary left second primary molar are some factors that could contribute a posterior open bite.