Conservative and simple rehabilitation to compensate posterior open bite: partial bonded restauration

Abstract

Posterior open bite is a malocclusion characterized by the absence of vertical contacts between the occlusal surfaces of the posterior teeth of the opposing arches. It can be uni- or bilateral and involve one tooth or more. Several aetiologies of these posterior open bite have been described, including pathological eruptions, dento-maxillary dysmorphosis and temporo-mandibular dysfunctions. When considering a correction or compensation, there are several therapeutic options (orthodontic and/or surgical and/or prosthetic). Recent developments in adhesive dentistry (bonding biomaterials, ceramics and composites) have made possible the development of more conservative approach for restorative and prosthetic treatments. In order to understand the possible use of these restorations and the help it can provide in our treatment plan, we have selected three original clinical situations. Each one illustrated a posterior open bite aetiology and explained the rehabilitation strategies chosen (process of decision making and realization). Partial bonded restorations (direct composites, overlays, tabletops, veenerlays) can be considered to compensate open bite, in case of impossibility, failure or as a complement of orthodontic treatments. Additive equilibration is not described in the literature for the compensation of posterior open bite, despite the many functional advantages along a simple and conservative technique.