Open bite is a defect caused by jaws moving apart instead of growing parallel, usually caused by uneven growth of the upper and lower jaws. This is because only the posterior teeth touch each other, the anterior bite is open this way, and the patient doesn’t bite anything into the anterior teeth. The health problems of this defect are related to mouth breathing, problems with the jaw joints, and overloading of the posterior teeth when biting.
| Operation Duration | Length of hospitalization | Recovery Time |
| Varies | Varies | Varies (orthodontic treatment) |
Aesthetic problems relate to an unsightly large lower third of the face and a significant gum problem, either the inability to close the mouth, which is still slightly open, or, on the contrary, very ugly dimples. Skeletal open bite is a defect known to resolve only with a combination of orthodontic treatment and surgery. According to all available sources, the operative solution to the open bite problem burden with a higher risk of recurrence: is the restoration of the defect. The defect never returns to its original size, and it is often possible to relapse in the postoperative period to adjust the braces.
Women who have or have had problems with the jaw joint and whose female hormones are at unbalanced levels are at higher risk of relapse. The characteristic image on the X-ray can follow changes in the joint. To minimize the risk, women should take certain precautions that aren’t part of the standard instruction, in addition to determining the level of female hormones.
The recurrence isn’t the non-union of the bone at the operation site but the gradual reconstruction of the cartilages of the jaw joints, to which a slightly greater force transfers after the operation. For this reason, it is necessary to take cartilage-protecting drugs regularly 3 months before the surgery, during the healing process, and sometimes 6 months after the surgery. In addition, experts must remove bitten lumps in overloaded molars before the operation.
To minimize the forces acting on the joint, specialists can use a special jaw-to-jaw attachment called skeletal fixation. In some cases, open bite not fix with brackets alone. During the operation, specialists may also recommend braces. This will ensure that no more force is transmitted to the jaw joint.
In the case of open bite surgery, specialists may have to provide your surgery for a more extended period, up to several months. Careful rehabilitation requires in the postoperative period. This period lasts 5-6 months. It strengthens muscle groups, which subsequently preserves the result of the operation.
What is Open Bite?
Open bite is a type of malocclusion that we characterize by the presence of a vertical gap that you can see, especially in the front teeth. The upper and lower incisors don’t touch each other, and although the closure is tight, there is a gap between them. Open bite saw in the area of the front teeth. If a person has an open bite, the upper and lower incisors don’t touch each other when the mouth is closed. When the jaws are at rest, there is a vertical gap between the upper and lower incisors that affects the appearance of the face. People with this problem tend to have pronunciation or other speech problems.
Genetics plays a role in the causes of open bites. Genetics may be responsible for the open bite that has been present since childhood. There may be other problems behind the formation of an open bite:
- Long-term finger or pacifier-sucking habits up to six years and older can cause the incisors to move forward and cause open bite problems.
- Bad habits such as pushing with the tongue, mouth breathing, and biting objects such as pencils can also contribute to misalignment of the teeth and subsequently to this problem.
- Skeletal malocclusion and abnormal curvature of one or both jaws can also cause this problem.
- Extra teeth, abnormally shaped or missing teeth, and extended bottle feeding time cause problems.
Open bite dramatically affects the appearance of the face. The front teeth are often protruding and appear protruding. An open bite can cause problems with chewing and, consequently, digestion and pronunciation. Open bite treatment varies depending on age, type, and severity. You can choose treatment with bulky and externally applied appliances to move the teeth into place. You can also use other intraoral appliances such as roller appliances, bite blocks, and different appliances. In rare cases, specialists may recommend orthognathic surgery. You can choose transparent braces to avoid cumbersome treatments with appliances or wired orthodontic brackets.
What are Open Bite Types?
Experts divide the open bite problem into two categories, skeletal and dental, in terms of the area affected by the complication, which includes the jawbone in the case of bone, causes defects in the teeth in the case of teeth, and consists of the jawbone. Check out the open bite types:
Open bite of anterior teeth
One of the types is the open bite of the jaw’s front teeth. In this case, when the person closes their mouth, there is no overlap between the front teeth of the upper jaw and the lower jaw. This type of problem occurs primarily due to the long face and overgrowth of the jawbone, misuse and excessive sucking of the pacifier, and protrusion of the tongue, and it causes discomfort to the person.
Open bite of posterior teeth
Another type of this problem is a posterior open bite. In this type of jaw deformity, when the person closes their mouth, there is no contact between the posterior teeth of the upper jaw and the lower jaw. This open bite is rare and less common than the anterior open bite. Dental problems in the posterior and posterior regions of the upper and lower jaws or bone problems in the upper and lower jaws mainly cause it.
Missing open bite
Missing open bite is also one type of this situation. In this case, when the patient closes their mouth, there is no contact between the front teeth of the upper jaw and the lower jaw.
Who Should Have Open Bite Treatment?
An open bite is a malocclusion (misalignment of the teeth) in which the upper and lower teeth don’t touch when the mouth is closed. It can cause by a variety of factors, including genetics, abnormal oral habits (such as thumb sucking), and certain medical conditions.
Experts typically recommend treatment for this problem for people who have difficulty biting or chewing food or have discomfort or pain in the jaw joint (temporomandibular joint). In addition, experts recommend treatment for people who are afraid of the appearance of their teeth.
In most cases, treatment for this problem includes orthodontic treatment, such as braces or clear aligners to bring the teeth into proper alignment. Sometimes you may need surgery to correct the underlying cause of this problem.Suppose you think you may have an open bite and are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above. In that case, seeing a dentist or orthodontist for evaluation and treatment recommendations is vital. Side effects of an open bite range from cosmetic concerns to broken teeth:
- A person with this problem may be dissatisfied with the appearance of their teeth as they appear protruding.
- This problem may interfere with speech and pronunciation.
- This dental problem can prevent you from biting and chewing food properly.
- Because the posterior teeth are often crooked, wear and tear can cause discomfort and other dental problems, including broken teeth.
If you experience any of these side effects with an open bite, make an appointment with your dentist or orthodontist to discuss treatment options. Remember that specialists can treat this problem at any age. However, it is much easier and less painful when adult teeth don’t fully develop.
Children with open bites should undergo a dental examination at 6-7, with some of their primary teeth preserved. This is an excellent time to initiate specific actions, including behavioral changes, to avoid overt concerns about how these children grow up. Solving the problem of biting in adults is more complicated. You may require a combination of behavioral and mechanical therapy or even jaw surgery.
What are the Risks of the Open Bite Treatment?
The risks of open bite treatment depend on the specific treatment you choose. In general, the chances of orthodontic treatment (such as braces or aligners) are relatively low and may include the following:
- Discomfort or irritation of the teeth, gums, or mouth from orthodontic appliances
- Difficulty speaking or eating with instruments in place
- Increased risk of cavities or gum disease due to problems cleaning teeth properly with devices in place
In more severe cases of open bite, you may require surgery to correct the underlying cause of the malocclusion. Surgery risks may include:
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Allergic reaction to anesthesia
- Nerve damage
Changes in sensation or function in the area the specialist is treating. It is essential to discuss the specific risks of your treatment with your dentist or orthodontist before starting treatment. They can help you understand the potential benefits and risks of different treatment options and make an informed decision about your care. This disorder and abnormality in the jaw lead to various complications, negatively affecting the person’s speech and swallowing. Check out the most common and important complications of this disorder:
- Irregularity of the teeth: One of the side effects caused by jaw and mouth disorders is the irregularity of the teeth. This causes deterioration in smile design and a beautiful smile.
- Speech disorders: Other complications caused by this problem include speech disorders. People with this condition have a pronunciation disorder and cannot pronounce some letters well. Also, their speech is the tip of the tongue.
- Disturbance in swallowing food: Another complication of this problem is the disorder in chewing and swallowing food. Since the teeth space while eating and drinking water, saliva or food may come from the mouth. It may also be difficult for a person to chew and swallow food.
- Tooth sensitivity: Loss of tooth enamel, wear of teeth, and increased tooth sensitivity are other complications caused by the open bite, which can cause various discomforts in the mouth.
- Disturbance of appearance and decrease in self-confidence: This causes the teeth to be disorganized and creates a gap between the lower and upper jaw teeth. When the person opens their mouth, they or feel terrible, and their self-confidence decreases.
- Headache: Other complications of this disorder and abnormality are frequent and severe headaches, tooth sensitivity, and pain.
What Will You Encounter During an Open Bite Treatment Consultation?
You will meet with your specialist at the open bite treatment consultation. The specialist will thoroughly examine your teeth, gums, and mouth. This may include taking X-rays or impressions of your teeth to create a detailed record of your oral health.
You will also be able to discuss your treatment goals and any concerns you may have with your doctor. Your dentist or orthodontist will want to understand your reasons for seeking treatment and what you hope to achieve through therapy.
The specialist will also review your medical and dental history during this process. Be prepared to discuss any treatments you have had, medical conditions, and medications you are taking. Your orthodontist will explain the various treatment options available and help you choose the one that best suits your needs. Your orthodontist will create a customized treatment plan based on your specific needs and goals. This plan will outline the steps involved in your treatment and an estimated timeline for its completion.
You can also discuss costs and payment options. The dentist will provide you with an estimated cost of treatment and discuss financing options that may be available to you. It is essential to ask your questions during the consultation to fully understand your treatment options and what to expect during the treatment process.
How Should You Prepare for Open Bite Treatment?
There are several things you can do to prepare for open bite treatment. These ensure that the treatment is flourishing and that you will have an aesthetic appearance after the procedure. Make a list of questions to ask your dentist. You may want to ask about the specific treatment recommended, the duration of the treatment, and what you can expect during the treatment process.
Gather your medical and dental records. If you have X-rays or other forms of your previous dental or medical treatments, it is helpful to bring them to the examination. Evaluate your budget and payment options. Open bite treatment can be expensive. That’s why it’s essential to know what you can afford and whether you need to finance your treatment. Your dentist can discuss payment options with you.
Make arrangements for transportation and time off from work or school. Depending on the severity of your problem, treatment may require multiple visits to the dental or orthodontic clinic. You will need to make arrangements to commute to your appointments and to take time off from work or school as needed.
Strictly follow your dentist’s instructions. The dentist may give you specific instructions, such as avoiding certain foods or medications before your treatment begins. It is essential to follow these instructions carefully to ensure your medicine is booming.
How is Open Bite Treatment Performed?
It is easy to treat this abnormality before the development of teeth and jaws completes, and this is possible by giving up habits such as thumb sucking, tongue sucking, and lip sucking. You should know that experts can eliminate destructive patterns with orthodontics.
Orthodontics is the best option to solve the problem in cases where the abnormality progresses and it is impossible to stop it by giving up bad habits. Sometimes a person suffers from a bone patency problem. In this case, experts recommend jaw surgery. In this case, orthodontics is necessary before and after jaw surgery. Check out the methods you can apply for open bite treatment:
Orthodontics and Braces
According to experts, orthodontics and braces are effective treatment methods that are generally applied and applied in the middle stages of open bite during childhood and adulthood. Specialists perform the treatment in two ways, mobile and fixed. In mobile mode, you can remove orthodontic wires from the mouth; fixedly, only the doctor can remove the cables from the teeth after the treatment period. The dentist uses mobile or fixed orthodontics after diagnosing the severity of the abnormality in the tooth and jaw. Experts use it to straighten the teeth and jaw by applying force to the jaw and teeth by using metal wires with brackets and placing them continuously. You determine the remaining time of the braces according to the degree of the disorder, the physician’s decision, and the formation of the jaw and teeth. It isn’t possible to specify an exact time for this.
If you are young and your bones are still growing, you can use the same bone growth ability to elevate the teeth in the back of the mouth and create the desired balance in the upper and lower teeth. Depending on the degree of crooked teeth, you can use mouth plugs (bite block) or orthodontic braces to correct the open bite. However, if you don’t abandon the behaviors and habits that cause the open bite problem, orthodontic treatment of the open bite will not have permanent and permanent results for you, and this problem will probably reoccur.
Today, the use of Temporary Skeletal Anchor Devices (TSAD) has also evolved a lot as one of the effective treatment solutions for anchorage control. Perhaps one of the most significant advantages of these tools is the vertical control they can provide. These devices, together with another device consisting of a mouth gag, a plastic button in the middle of the palate, and four lateral nitinol fins that exert force in the vertical direction, cause the teeth to emerge at the back of the mouth.
Oral Plug (Bite Block)
Specialists design oral plugs or bite blocks so that only the second molars are in contact with them. Gradually, as the teeth in the back of the mouth move inward, the first molars and canines (two pedestals) come into contact with this tool.
Open Bite Surgery
Open bite surgery is performed by specialists when bone growth slows or stops in adults. This fundamental problem is so severe that it is impossible to achieve excellent and permanent results with other methods. You can achieve permanent results in treating open bites and other dental problems with orthodontic or jaw correction surgery. In this surgery, specialists fix the upper jaw to its new position using screws and special plates.
Jaw surgery is one of the treatment methods for open bite, and specialists do this if the jaw bone development is complete. Specialists use surgery to correctly position the jaw and make it healthier and more durable; as with the growth of jawbones, orthodontics and instruments are no longer available for correct jaw placement and teeth placement. In this method, surgeons place the upper jaw in its original and proper position and help fix the jaw in its original position using special screws and plates.
What to Consider After Open Bite Treatment?
Check out what to consider after open bite treatment:
- Follow-up care: Your dentist will likely schedule follow-up appointments to check your progress and make necessary adjustments to your treatment.
- Special care: Depending on your treatment, you may need to wear a retainer or use other attachments to align your teeth. It is essential to follow your dentist’s instructions to maintain your results.
- Oral health: Good oral hygiene is essential for maintaining the health of your teeth and gums. Visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and checkups.
- Lifestyle changes: If your open bite causes by an oral habit (such as thumb sucking), you may need to make lifestyle changes to prevent the open bite from returning. Your orthodontist can make specific recommendations for you.
- Further treatment: In some cases, treatment may not be entirely successful on the first try. If your teeth don’t line up correctly after treatment, you may need more treatments to get the desired results.
What is the Recovery Process After Open Bite Treatment?
Although treatment is critical, the recovery process directly affects the procedure’s success rate. The recovery period after treatment will depend on the specific treatment you receive. Check out the recovery process after open bite treatment in general:
- If you have had orthodontic treatment (such as braces or aligners), you may experience discomfort or irritation in your mouth as your teeth adjust to their new position. Your dentist can recommend pain management techniques if needed.
- If you have had surgery to correct your dental problem, the healing process will be more complicated. You may experience swelling, bruising, and pain after surgery. Your doctor will provide specific instructions on managing these symptoms and care for your mouth after surgery. It may take several weeks or months for the swelling to go away and for your mouth to heal completely.
- In either case, following your dentist’s aftercare instructions is essential. This may include taking the specialist’s prescribed medications, avoiding certain foods or activities, and maintaining good oral hygiene. If you have any questions or concerns about your recovery, discuss them with your dentist.
How Long After Open Bite Treatment Will You See the Final Result?
The time it takes to see the final result after open bite treatment depends on your treatment. If you have had orthodontic treatment (such as braces), the length of treatment will depend on the severity of your dental problem and how well you follow your treatment plan. In general, orthodontic treatment can take several months to several years. As treatment progresses, you will see improvements in your teeth’ alignment. However, it may take several months or longer to see the final result.
The healing process may take longer if you have had surgery to correct this problem. It may take several weeks or months for the swelling to go away and for your mouth to heal completely. Once the healing process is complete, you should be able to see the final result of your treatment. It is essential to be patient and follow your orthodontist’s instructions for post-treatment care. This will help you get the best possible outcome for your treatment.
How Much Does Open Bite Treatment Cost?
One of the treatment concerns of people regarding various body complications, including the jaw, mouth, and teeth, has always been the cost of treatment. This sometimes results in delayed treatment and more severe injuries that experts cannot repair.
Open bite treatment cost varies according to factors such as other complications. The most crucial factor is the treatment method, which plays a fundamental role in determining the cost of treatment. If the treatment method uses dental tools and equipment such as headgear and mouth plugs, the person has to pay the price of these tools in addition to the dentist’s salary. If orthodontics performs, the treatment cost calculates according to the type of treatment (fixed and removable), the type of orthodontic braces, and the number of applications to the orthodontic clinic.
As a result, if jaw surgery performs, the cost will be calculated according to factors such as the tools and equipment that the specialists will use, the salary of the jaw surgeon, and the prescribed drugs. Of course, different insurance companies will cover part of the treatment price according to their own company’s tariff and their contract with the relevant clinic.
In Which Countries is the Cheapest Open Bite Treatment Performed?
The cost of open bite treatment can vary widely depending on several factors, including the severity of the open bite, the type of treatment, and the location of the orthodontic practice. Dental treatment costs are lower in countries with lower overall healthcare costs. This may make it tempting to seek treatment in another country to save money. However, it is essential to consider all potential risks and benefits before seeking treatment abroad.
Before you seek treatment abroad, thoroughly research any dental practice you are considering, including the qualifications and experience of the treating professionals. It may also be helpful to talk to your regular dentist for recommendations and discuss any concerns. Here are the open bite treatment costs by country:
| COUNTRY | COST |
| United States | $3000 to $40000 |
| Brazil | $2000 to $18000 |
| China | $2500 to $26000 |
| Japan | $2800 to $30000 |
| South Korea | $2000 to $17000 |
| India | $1500 to $15500 |
| Argentina | $2000 to $17500 |
| Mexico | $1000 to $15000 |
| Germany | $2200 to $26700 |
| Turkey | $850 to $14300 |
| Colombia | $1900 to $16500 |
| Italy | $2150 to $26000 |
| France | $2400 to $25250 |
| Spain | $2500 to $26000 |
| Taiwan | $2200 to $17500 |
| Venezuela | $1000 to $15700 |
| United Kingdom | $2750 to $28000 |
| Netherlands | $2300 to $23000 |
| Egypt | $2000 to $16000 |
| Peru | $2600 to $18250 |
| AVERAGE COST | $850 to $40000 |
Attention: For Information Purposes Only
Please note that the content of this website is not a substitute for professional medical advice. You should always consult a qualified dentist for personal guidance.
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