• The korean journal of orthodontics
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• v.39 no.6
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• pp.402-419
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• 2009

Successful treatment of the non-growing patient with an open bite of either dental skeletal pattern often presents a difficult challenge. The morphologic pattern in anterior open bite is characterized by longer vertical dimensions, an increase in development of the maxillary posterior dento-alveolar structure and a steep mandibular plane. In such cases, molar intrusion would be a good remedy for treatment. This article reports the successful treatment and retention of two anterior open-bite cases. We used orthodontic mini-implants for treatment and a circumferential retainer with posterior bite block or skeletal fixed retainer for retention. The diagnostic criteria and mechanics for appropriate treatment are discussed. Our results suggest that open bite can be reduced successfully with intrusion of molars using orthodontic mini-implants (OMI) without orthognathic surgery, and that circumferential retainer with posterior bite block and skeletal fixed retainer are effective for retention.