The high relapse incidence of anterior open-bite malocclusion is frequently due to an anterior tongue rest posture. A maxillary fixed intraoral appliance with spurs is recommended to modify tongue posture. Research with this appliance in a large sample of anterior open-bite patients demonstrated long-term stability post-retention. You will learn why: • Long-term stability of open bite closure is no better than 80%. • Myofunctional therapy with oral exercises is ineffective in closing open-bites. • TADs used for anterior open-bite closure might not have a stable outcome. • Fixed intraoral spurs are recommended to establish a normal tongue rest posture (a new engram). • Spurs modify tongue posture and also interrupt digit-sucking habits • The anterior open bite closes with spurs, without using brackets/wires. • Long-term stability post-retention is achieved when spurs are used. • Spurs are indicated/contraindicated. • Early correction of open bite protects roots from resorbing. • Intraoral spurs do not provoke psychological problems. You will learn the: • Risk factors for anterior open-bite. • In-office construction of the spur appliance.
Learning Objectives:
After this lecture, attendees will be able to:
Establish a new tongue posture in their patients using tongue spurs.
Close anterior open bite with spurs.
Obtain long-term post-treatment stability of the corrected open bite.
