A severe open bite case treated with orthodontics and tongue reduction surgery: 13-year followup. A case report.

BACKGROUND

The management of open bite malocclusions creates controversy when treatment approach and long-term stability are considered. Tongue size, posture and habits have been associated as aetiologic and compounding factors. Reduction tongue surgery has therefore been advocated as an aid in treatment, especially when the open bite is accompanied by perceived macroglossia.

AIM: The present article describes a clinical case of a 10-year-old girl who started treatment in the mixed dentition with an excessive open bite and speech defects.

METHODS

A combination of orthodontics and a partial glossectomy was necessary to successfully address the open bite associated with an enlarged tongue.

RESULTS

The need for orthognathic surgery treatment was eliminated and the patient was satisfied with the post-treatment aesthetics, function and speech.

CONCLUSION

After 13 years of follow-up, a stable occlusion was maintained with only minor relapse.