[Retaining corrected skeletal open bites. How can we increase the stability of our results?]

INTRODUCTION: Retaining corrected skeletal anterior open bites is challenging. If it is possible to identify the aetiological factors causing an open bite, an appropriate choice of treatment and retention may reduce relapse. Extruding anterior teeth to close anterior open bites is known to be unstable, so treatment is typically aimed at controlling the vertical position of maxillary molars, in addition to removing causative factors, such as breaking habits and improving tongue posture. Relapse rates are high, with relapse estimated at about 20-30%, with slightly more stability for a surgical approach.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Various approaches with retainers are described that aim to restrict the eruption of posterior teeth, and improve the position of the tongue.

RESULTS: These retainers often require excellent patient compliance and there is a lack of high quality evidence to support their use. Further research is required to confirm the effectiveness of these approaches.