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Prevention and Treatment of Posterior Open Bite with Clear Aligners

Modified: December 21, 2018 - 11:01 AM

Are you aware of the best treatment for a patient with a posterior open bite?  This often results when there is space in between the back teeth.  In dental terms, the upper and the lower anterior teeth do not touch when a patient tries to bite down. In such a case, the posterior teeth are usually not in occlusion. Posterior open bite is a common problem that arises with the use of clear aligners.

For most dentists, the challenge is recognizing the problem and coming up with better ways to deal with it. If you have a patient with a posterior open bite and are wondering how to approach it, our experts at Gerety Orthodontic Seminars are here to help.

When using Aligners at the Time of Treatment

Posterior open bite is often caused as a result of the use of clear aligners. The aligners cover the occlusal of the posterior teeth, which means the patient bites down on the aligners.  This behavior often leads to retroclined anterior teeth (upper), or a lack of overjet. In either case, premature anterior contact occurs and leads to the posterior open bite problem.  Occlusal corrections must be included from the beginning period of the overall treatment plan. 

Our Approach to Posterior Open Bite

The best approach is to prevent the occurrence or the development of this problem from the very beginning of the treatment. The ideal solution is to add extra torque to the upper anterior teeth. In addition, in the case of a lack of the overjet, there may be a need for Interproximal Reduction (IPR) to increase overjet. In the overall treatment plan, we advise showing an overjet of at least 1-2mm on the finishing stages to account for the thickness of the clear aligners. Following these tips can help to reduce and in most cases eliminate the posterior open bite occurrence.

For more information about learning how to be successful with the correction of orthodontic problems, including the best methods to avoid such problems with the use of clear aligners, we invite you to contact us at Gerety Orthodontic Seminars. Our website www.orthodonticteaching.com  provides more information on how you can enroll in the upcoming orthodontic continuing education courses or the seminars we conduct.

We offer both on-site courses and online continuing education for dentists and dental assistants.  If you   find it challenging to make time to attend on-site courses, you can enroll in our virtual learning programs. This gives you the convenience of learning from the comfort of your home or clinic while mastering your orthodontic skills.

Gerety Orthodontic Seminars offers the best in orthodontic teaching, with unparalleled support and the lowest student-teacher ratio in the nation.  Let us help you consider the advantages of adding orthodontics to your practice.