Open bite and its management

The oro-facial area is strongly connected with one's self-image and therefore plays an important role in social interaction. Hence the correction of malocclusion is of prime importance. The vertical overlap of anterior teeth is known as OVERBITE (normally 2-3mm) and the horizontal overlap of the anterior teeth is known as OVERJET (normally 2-3mm). Any deviation from this normal occlusion will lead to malocclusion. Malocclusion can occur in three planes i.e sagittal plane, vertical plane and transverse plane. In the past, though the importance has been given for the treatment of sagittal and transverse malocclusion, the malocclusion occurring in the vertical plane is of equal importance. When there is lack of vertical overlap between the maxillary and mandibular dentition, it is termed as OPEN BITE and if there is an increase in the overbite is termed as DEEP BITE.