Our Summary

This research study compared the long-term results of two methods used to treat a dental condition called anterior open-bite (AOB), where the front teeth do not touch when the mouth is closed. The two methods are orthognathic surgery (a type of jaw surgery) and non-surgical treatment using orthodontic miniscrews to move the molars.

The researchers studied individuals who had undergone either of these treatments, comparing images taken before treatment, straight after AOB correction, after their full orthodontic treatment, and at least a year later. They ensured that the two groups of patients (21 in each group) were similar in terms of their initial open-bite extent, sex, and age.

Results showed that both the surgical and non-surgical treatments were effective in increasing the overbite (upper teeth overlap with lower teeth) by 4.5-5.1 mm. The results were not significantly different between the groups. However, the first molar in the upper jaw moved more in the non-surgical group than in the surgical group.

In conclusion, both treatment methods had similar long-term stability (between 76.8 to 78.7%). Therefore, patients with AOB and without severe skeletal deformity can choose either treatment with similar expected outcomes and stability. However, it is also noted that the non-surgical method may result in more downward movement of the first molar.

FAQs

  1. What are the two methods used to treat anterior open-bite (AOB) as mentioned in the study?
  2. How effective are the orthognathic surgery and non-surgical treatment using orthodontic miniscrews in treating AOB according to the research?
  3. What could be the possible differences in outcomes between the surgical and non-surgical methods for treating AOB?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip that a doctor might tell a patient about jaw surgery is to follow post-operative care instructions carefully to ensure proper healing and minimize complications. This may include sticking to a soft diet, avoiding strenuous activities, practicing good oral hygiene, and attending follow-up appointments as scheduled. Additionally, it is important for patients to communicate any concerns or changes in their condition to their healthcare provider promptly.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended jaw surgery for conditions such as anterior open-bite (AOB) may include those with:

  1. Severe skeletal deformities affecting the jaw structure
  2. Inability to achieve proper alignment of the teeth and jaws through orthodontic treatment alone
  3. Functional issues such as difficulty chewing or speaking due to the malocclusion
  4. Aesthetic concerns related to the appearance of the jaw and teeth

It is important for patients to consult with an orthodontist or oral surgeon to determine the most appropriate treatment plan based on their individual condition and needs.

Timeline

Before jaw surgery, a patient typically undergoes a consultation with a maxillofacial surgeon to discuss the procedure and potential outcomes. They may also need to undergo orthodontic treatment to prepare the teeth for surgery. The surgery itself can take several hours under general anesthesia, during which the surgeon repositions the jaw bones to correct the bite.

After jaw surgery, the patient will experience swelling, pain, and discomfort in the jaw area. They will be on a liquid or soft food diet for a period of time and may need to wear rubber bands or other appliances to help with healing and alignment. Regular follow-up appointments with the surgeon and orthodontist will be necessary to monitor progress and make any necessary adjustments.

Over time, the patient will gradually return to normal activities and diet as the jaw heals and the bite stabilizes. It may take several months for full recovery and for the final results of the surgery to be visible. The patient may also need to continue orthodontic treatment to fine-tune the bite and ensure long-term stability.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about jaw surgery for treating anterior open-bite (AOB) may include:

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with orthognathic surgery for correcting AOB?
  2. How long is the recovery process after jaw surgery, and what can I expect during the recovery period?
  3. Will I need to wear braces before or after the surgery, and for how long?
  4. How will my bite and facial appearance change after the surgery, and what are the expected long-term results?
  5. Are there alternative treatments available for AOB, and how do they compare to orthognathic surgery in terms of effectiveness and stability?
  6. What is the success rate of orthodontic miniscrews for treating AOB compared to jaw surgery?
  7. How will the surgical procedure be performed, and what type of anesthesia will be used?
  8. Will I need to follow a specific diet or oral hygiene regimen after the surgery?
  9. Are there any lifestyle changes I should make before or after the surgery to optimize the results?
  10. How frequently will I need to follow up with my doctor after the surgery, and what signs should I look out for that may indicate complications or issues with the treatment?

Reference

Authors: Chang PE, Kim JY, Jung HD, Park JJ, Choi YJ. Journal: Clin Oral Investig. 2022 Nov;26(11):6607-6616. doi: 10.1007/s00784-022-04615-6. Epub 2022 Jul 12. PMID: 35821135