Simple, complex and vertical open bite can occur during the transition from primary to permanent teeth or from the interaction of thumb and finger sucking, lip and tongue habits, airway obstruction, and skeletal growth abnormalities. Treatments for open bite are many, as are theories on when treatment should be initiated. Given the prevalence of open bite and the effectiveness of habit-control strategies, researchers believe further studies are needed to determine whether early initiated, lengthy treatment plans are cost effective. Almost all children experience open bites with little disruption during the transition from primary to permanent teeth, which can last as long as two years. Simple open bite during this transition usually resolves without treatment.
Vertical growth is the last dimension to be completed.
Treatment of patients with skeletal open bites may appear successful at one point and fail later on as a result of a continuous vertical growth after removal of braces. In cases like these, treatment for open bite can be prolonged if begun too early. Treatments for open bite include controlling the habit, using an orthodontic appliance, or surgical intervention. However, the most difficult part of treating open bite lies in its diagnosis, which requires experience and training in oral growth and development. Pediatric dentists are uniquely trained to provide oral health care services for infants through adolescents, including those with special health care needs.