TITLE:
Non-Surgical Orthodontic Treatment of Severe Open Bite Associated with Functional Treatment: A Borderline Case
AUTHORS:
Soukaina Sahim, Sanaa Alami, Lahcen Ousehal
KEYWORDS:
Open Bite, Non-Surgical, Orthodontics, Functional Treatment, Stability
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Access Library Journal,
Vol.13 No.3,
March
18,
2026
ABSTRACT: This case report describes the treatment of a borderline case with severe skeletal open bite that was managed orthodontically. The patient presented an open bite from 16 to 25 associated with maxillary endoalveolia. She underwent lingual frenectomy and presented with the maxillary first premolars already extracted. Although surgery would have been the ideal approach, the chosen treatment plan consisted of an orthodontic option involving extraction of the first mandibular premolars. The open bite was managed by molar intrusion, anterior retraction and the use of vertical elastics. The functional lingual problem as well as the maxillary endoalveolia was corrected using a quad helix associated with palatal grid. Lingual exercises were also taught to the patient throughout the treatment period and during the 1-year follow-up period. The orthodontic compensation treatment enabled the correction of the severe open bite. Class I canine and molar relationships were restored and both smile and facial aesthetics were improved. The management of the functional lingual problem ensured treatment stability. Accurate diagnosis and identification of the etiological factors in open bite patients are essential for defining treatment objectives and determining the appropriate treatment plan for this type of malocclusion.