Open Bite
A malocclusion characterised by a lack of vertical overlap between opposing teeth, most commonly the anterior teeth, resulting in a gap when the posterior teeth are in occlusion.
Full Definition
An open bite is measured as a negative overbite: when the upper and lower teeth are brought into their maximum intercuspation, the anterior (or occasionally posterior) teeth fail to contact, leaving a visible vertical gap. Anterior open bite is strongly associated with habits such as digit-sucking or tongue thrust and with hyperdivergent skeletal patterns. Posterior open bite is less common and may be associated with condylar resorption or lateral tongue posture. Editors must note the two-word spelling 'open bite' (not 'openbite' or 'open-bite') preferred in most indexed journals, though hyphenated forms appear in some house styles. This term is frequently confused with 'deep bite,' its vertical opposite.
Usage
Usage note: Prefer two-word form 'open bite' unless house style mandates hyphenation; always specify 'anterior' or 'posterior' when ambiguity is possible.
In Context
- "The patient's persistent digit-sucking habit was identified as the primary aetiology of the 4 mm anterior open bite." — Paediatric dentistry referral letter
- "Relapse rates for surgically corrected anterior open bite were higher in patients with residual tongue-thrust patterns." — Post-surgical follow-up study